Psychology Chapter 5: Anxiety

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Questions and Answers

What is a defining characteristic of specific phobias?

The fear interferes with the individual's ability to function. (correct)

The fear is often recognized as rational by the sufferer.

Phobias are never related to societal changes.

Fear is proportionate to the actual danger posed.

Which suffix is commonly used to name specific phobias?

-mania

-phobist

-philiac

-phobia (correct)

Which of the following statements about treatment for specific phobias is correct?

Stepped care approaches do not improve treatment outcomes.

Psychological treatments generally perform better in the long term than medications. (correct)

Combining drug treatment and CBT is superior to each individually.

Only drug treatments are effective for managing specific phobias.

What is an example of a phobia that has emerged due to societal changes?

Nomophobia Signup and view all the answers

Which of these correctly describes the fear associated with specific phobias?

The fear is recognized as excessive by the individual. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic experienced by individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Irritability and difficulty sleeping Signup and view all the answers

What demographic group has the highest prevalence of GAD according to the 2022 statistics?

Individuals aged 45 and older Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a cognitive characteristic of GAD?

Intolerance of uncertainty Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment option is considered effective for GAD?

Cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) Signup and view all the answers

What role do stressful life events play in GAD?

They can trigger the onset of GAD. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding the treatment of GAD?

GAD often results in full remission when treated. Signup and view all the answers

What cognitive error might individuals with GAD often make regarding ambiguous situations?

They interpret them as threatening. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is associated with a higher risk of developing GAD?

A family history of anxiety disorders Signup and view all the answers

What best describes anxiety as an emotion?

A common emotion marked by physical symptoms and future-oriented thoughts. Signup and view all the answers

Which component of anxiety involves a heightened level of arousal?

Physiological component. Signup and view all the answers

What is the mean age of onset for panic disorder?

25-29 years Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates normal anxiety from abnormal anxiety?

Chronic perception of threat when no actual threat exists indicates abnormal anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of a panic attack?

It involves an abrupt experience of intense fear or discomfort without a present threat. Signup and view all the answers

Which gender has a higher reported rate of panic disorder?

Women Signup and view all the answers

What psychological factor contributes to the vicious cycle in panic disorder?

Misinterpretation of physiological arousal symptoms Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is associated with anxiety due to its low levels?

GABA. Signup and view all the answers

How does the noradrenergic system relate to anxiety?

It plays a role in the emotional regulation of anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

What substance is known for affecting cognitive and motor functions when used for panic disorder treatment?

Benzodiazepines Signup and view all the answers

During which time frame do nocturnal panic attacks most frequently occur?

1:30 am to 3:30 am Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system in anxiety?

It activates the HPA axis, contributing to anxiety responses. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the duration of anxiety is correct?

Anxiety usually ends when the stressful event is over. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of GABA in panic disorder according to biological theories?

It inhibits noradrenergic activity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the panic disorder prevalent in Latin American cultures?

Susto Signup and view all the answers

What is a key component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in treating panic disorder?

Gradual exposure exercises Signup and view all the answers

What is a common physiological sign of anxiety that individuals with social anxiety disorder fear will be observed by others?

Shaking Signup and view all the answers

At what peak age is social anxiety disorder most commonly observed to begin?

15 years Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a cognitive characteristic associated with social anxiety disorder?

Attentional bias to negative social information Signup and view all the answers

What treatment method is considered more effective than psychoeducation for social anxiety disorder?

Cognitive-behavioural group therapy (CBGT) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor associated with the development of social anxiety disorder?

Public speaking skills Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon describes an individual's focus on perfectionistic standards for accepted social performances?

Post-event processing Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic group shows a higher prevalence of social anxiety disorder?

Young, single, less educated individuals Signup and view all the answers

How does the brain activity of people with social anxiety disorder differ from those without it when reacting to angry faces?

Greater amygdala activation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is Anxiety?

Common emotion with physical symptoms, future-oriented thoughts, and avoidance behaviors.
Arises from new situations or life-changing events; typically time-limited.

Components of Anxiety

Physiological: Increased arousal levels, including symptoms like shortness of breath and dry mouth.
Cognitive: Subjective perceptions of anxiety, marked by worry and rumination.
Behavioral: Safety behaviors, encompassing escape and avoidance tactics.

Normal vs. Abnormal Anxiety

Occasional anxiety is normal, particularly in genuinely upsetting situations.
Chronic anxiety involves perceiving threats without objective basis, leading to significant impairment and distress.

Anxiety, Fear, and Panic

Anxiety: Negative mood state characterized by physical tension and apprehension about future events.
Fear: Immediate response to present danger, triggering alarm reactions.
Panic Attack: Intense, sudden fear without immediate threat; can be expected (cued) or unexpected (uncued).

Causes of Anxiety

Biological Contributions: Genetic predisposition towards anxiety; low GABA levels associated with increased threat response.
Neurotransmitter Systems: Involvement of the noradrenergic system and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF).
Symptoms: Include muscle tension, irritation, and sleep difficulties.

Statistics on Anxiety

Global 12-month prevalence of anxiety among individuals aged 15 and older: 5.2% (2022).
Higher prevalence in women; GAD patients often seek less treatment than those with panic disorders.
Most common in individuals over 45 years, with gradual onset.

Treatment for Anxiety

Medications: Include benzodiazepines (limited to short-term use), antidepressants (e.g., Paxil).
Psychological Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on reducing worry and avoidance behaviors.

Panic Disorder (PD) Insights

Prevalence in Canada: 4% will experience PD in their lifetime; higher rates in women (4.6%) vs. men (2.8%).
Mean age of onset: 25-29 years, with most attacks beginning post-puberty.
Cultural Variability: Different expressions globally, including the Latin American susto and Inuit kayak-angst.

Nocturnal Panic

Occurs frequently between 1:30 AM and 3:30 AM, typically during delta sleep.

Biological Theories of Panic Disorder

Parallel familial patterns suggest genetic factors in PD.
Noradrenergic activity linked to panic; stimulation can provoke panic-like symptoms.

Psychological Theories of Panic Disorder

Misinterpretation of physiological sensations leads to increased anxiety, perpetuating panic cycles.
Anxiety sensitivity amplifies interpretations of bodily sensations as danger signals.

Treatment for Panic Disorder

Medications: Benzodiazepines and SSRIs; high relapse rates post-medication cessation.
Psychological Interventions: Exposure-based therapies and Panic Control Treatment (PCT) focus on desensitization.
Combined Treatments: Evidence shows initial psychological methods may yield better long-term outcomes than drug use alone.

Specific Phobia Clinical Description

Characterized by irrational, disproportionate fears affecting functioning.
New phobias often develop in response to societal changes; suffix ‘phobia’ derived from Greek mythology.

Involves persistent fears of negative evaluation by others, leading to avoidance.
12-month prevalence in Canada: 7.1%; commonly begins in adolescence (peak at 15 years).

Biological vulnerabilities paired with negative social experiences can cultivate SAD.
Cognitive features include attentional biases toward negative social cues and perfectionism in social situations.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and group therapy (CBGT) focusing on restructuring cognitive patterns and role-playing.
Recognized as more effective than simple psychoeducation approaches.

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Description

This quiz explores the concept of anxiety, including its definition, components, and physiological symptoms. It highlights how anxiety is a common emotion that arises in response to new situations or life-changing events. Test your understanding of the various aspects of anxiety and its effects on individuals.