Psychology Chapter on Anxiety Disorders
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Questions and Answers

What relationship exists between lifetime depression and hippocampal volume?

  • No relationship exists.
  • A linear relationship exists.
  • A negative correlation exists. (correct)
  • A positive correlation exists.

Which of the following is not a symptom associated with anxiety disorders?

  • Tension and worry
  • Hypervigilance
  • Euphoria (correct)
  • Social activity avoidance

Which statement correctly defines anxiety in relation to fear?

  • Anxiety is a state of tension over future threats. (correct)
  • Anxiety is felt only in direct response to a threat.
  • Anxiety can only be diagnosed after a traumatic event.
  • Fear requires the imminent presence of danger.

What is the approximate lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders among adults?

<p>25% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a core component of PTSD but categorized separately from anxiety disorders?

<p>Fear (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the nature of a diagnosis for anxiety disorders?

<p>Symptoms must be present over time and impact daily functioning. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term is used interchangeably with 'low signal foci' that indicates potential hippocampal atrophy?

<p>Holes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of anxiety disorder involves an intense fear of specific objects or situations?

<p>Phobias (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technique involves a patient reporting all thoughts without reservation?

<p>Free association (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a reason academic psychology moved away from Freud's theories?

<p>Reliance on untestable concepts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Aaron Beck, the underlying cause of psychological disorders is linked to what factor?

<p>Maladaptive thoughts and behaviors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects Freud's view on the unconscious mind?

<p>It significantly influences behavior. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

<p>It uses empirically-verified therapies to address symptoms. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a noted limitation of psychodynamic therapy according to the criticisms mentioned?

<p>It emphasizes individual unique experiences. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the concept of 'critical time windows' reflect on human development, according to Freud's theories?

<p>It highlights the importance of parental influence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism through which benzodiazepines exert their therapeutic effects?

<p>Potentiating the effect of GABA (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is responsible for the increased hyperpolarization when benzodiazepines bind to GABA receptors?

<p>Increased permeability to chloride ions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant concern associated with the long-term use of benzodiazepines?

<p>Development of tolerance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which benzodiazepine is commonly used for anxiety treatment?

<p>Klonopin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of benzodiazepines on the amygdala?

<p>Increased inhibition (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the hippocampal volume of patients with PTSD compared to controls?

<p>Hippocampal volume is smaller in PTSD patients. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common benzodiazepine?

<p>Prozac (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement describes amygdala reactivity in PTSD patients?

<p>Amygdala activity is more pronounced in the presence of threats. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the activity of the prefrontal cortex compare in PTSD patients versus controls?

<p>The prefrontal cortex is less active than normal in PTSD patients. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the chloride channels when benzodiazepines and GABA are both bound to their receptors?

<p>They open, allowing chloride ions to flow (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what manner do benzodiazepines affect anxiety symptoms?

<p>They block anxiety effectively but not for long (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be concluded about emotional regulation in PTSD patients?

<p>PTSD patients display dysfunction in emotional regulation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the data suggest about the correlation between trauma and hippocampal volume?

<p>Trauma is associated with a decrease in hippocampal volume. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ion's increased permeability is crucial for the hyperpolarization effect induced by benzodiazepines?

<p>Chloride (Cl-) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are benzodiazepines particularly concerning in the context of dependence?

<p>They can alter brain chemistry and lead to withdrawal symptoms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of amygdala reactivity, what kind of face shows heightened activity?

<p>Threat faces. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the response of the amygdala to neutral stimuli in PTSD patients?

<p>The amygdala shows decreased activation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the amygdala's activity during threat perception differ in PTSD patients compared to healthy controls?

<p>PTSD patients experience heightened amygdala responses. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is most directly linked to heightened amygdala activation in PTSD patients?

<p>Exposure to threat faces. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of brain activity is notably altered in PTSD patients during emotional regulation tasks?

<p>Increased amygdala activity and decreased prefrontal cortex activity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant drawback of using benzodiazepines for anxiety treatment?

<p>They are not desirable for long-term treatment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of medications is typically used for long-term treatment of anxiety disorders?

<p>SSRIs and SNRIs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which anxiety disorders do antidepressants show better efficacy?

<p>Social anxiety and generalized anxiety (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does psychoanalytic therapy primarily aim to uncover during treatment?

<p>Underlying psychological conflicts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the observed effect of eight weeks of Zoloft treatment on amygdala reactivity?

<p>Change in percentage response post-treatment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the role of antidepressants in treating anxiety disorders?

<p>They can be effective for some anxiety disorders but not others. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does psychoanalysis differ from other treatment methods for anxiety disorders?

<p>It seeks to explore unconscious conflicts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about benzodiazepines in the context of anxiety disorders?

<p>They are safe for unlimited long-term use. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anxiety disorder is least likely to respond favorably to antidepressants based on current understanding?

<p>Obsessive-compulsive disorder (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the graph suggest about the changes in amygdala reactivity after SSRI treatment?

<p>Amygdala reactivity decreases significantly with SSRI treatment. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

A type of psychological disorder characterized by persistent tension, worry, overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, expectation of impending disaster, hypervigilance, arousal, irritability, and avoidance of social activities. It significantly impacts functioning.

Fear vs. Anxiety

The feeling of fear is evoked by threats that are actually occurring in the present. On the other hand, anxiety is a state of tension over threats that may occur in the future.

Phobias

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by a persistent and excessive fear of specific objects or situations, leading to avoidance behaviors.

Panic Disorder

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear (panic attacks) accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

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Social Anxiety Disorder

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear and anxiety in social situations, leading to avoidance and social isolation.

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Generalized Anxiety Disorder

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and excessive worry about multiple aspects of life, accompanied by physical symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and muscle tension.

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Separation Anxiety Disorder

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by excessive anxiety about separation from attachment figures, particularly in childhood.

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A complex psychological disorder characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative thoughts and feelings, and hyperarousal following a traumatic event.

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Hippocampus

A brain region involved in memory formation and spatial navigation.

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Hippocampus & PTSD

Smaller hippocampus volume has been linked to PTSD in research.

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Amygdala

A brain region involved in processing emotions, especially fear and threat.

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Amygdala & PTSD

Increased activity in the amygdala is observed in PTSD patients when exposed to threatening stimuli.

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Prefrontal Cortex

A part of the brain important for regulating emotions and decision-making.

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Prefrontal Cortex & PTSD

Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex is often found in PTSD patients.

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PTSD Brain Changes

PTSD is associated with imbalances in brain activity, particularly in the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex.

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Dysfunctional Emotion Regulation

Difficulty regulating emotions, which is common in PTSD.

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Cognitive Flexibility & PTSD

Reduced cognitive flexibility and difficulties transitioning between different thoughts and emotions.

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Benzodiazepines

A class of drugs known for their effectiveness in reducing anxiety and its symptoms. Example drugs include Valium, Xanax, Klonopin, and Ativan.

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Benzodiazepine Mechanism of Action

Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter known for its calming effects.

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Benzodiazepine target

The primary target for benzodiazepines is the GABA receptor, which is involved in regulating anxiety and relaxation.

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Benzodiazepine Effect on GABA Receptor

Benzodiazepines increase the flow of chloride ions into neurons through the GABA receptor, leading to hyperpolarization or inhibition of neuronal activity.

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Benzodiazepine Effect on Amydala

The increased inhibition of neuronal activity, particularly within the amygdala, is thought to explain the effectiveness of benzodiazepines in reducing anxiety.

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Benzodiazepine Effectiveness

Benzodiazepines are highly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms, but their effects are often short-lived. They are often used for short-term treatment.

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Benzodiazepine Dependence

A major concern with benzodiazepines is the potential for dependence and addiction, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and responsible use.

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GABA

GABA is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and inhibition of neuronal activity.

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GABA Receptor

The GABA receptor is a protein complex that binds to GABA, triggering inhibition of neuronal activity.

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Benzodiazepine Binding to GABA Receptor

Benzodiazepines enhance the activity of GABA by binding to its specific site on the GABA receptor.

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SSRIs and SNRIs

They are effective for treating anxiety and can be used for long-term treatment. SNRIs are a type of SSRI.

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Which anxiety disorders respond better to antidepressants?

Some anxiety disorders, such as panic, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety, respond better to antidepressants than others.

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Amygdala reactivity

It refers to the emotional response to a threat, especially in the form of fear or anxiety. When a part of the brain called the amygdala becomes overactive, it contributes to the experience of anxiety. Antidepressants like Zoloft can help regulate amygdala activity, reducing excessive fear responses.

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Psychoanalysis

A type of psychotherapy that aims to uncover underlying psychological conflicts that may be contributing to anxiety symptoms.

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Core Assumption of Psychoanalysis

It assumes that all psychological disorders arise from unresolved conflicts or traumas that are buried in the unconscious mind.

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Goal of Psychoanalysis

It aims to bring these repressed conflicts into conscious awareness, allowing individuals to understand and work through them.

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How does psychoanalysis work?

Patients talk freely about their thoughts and feelings, and the therapist listens attentively and helps them analyze their experiences.

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Result of Psychoanalysis

By analyzing their experiences, patients can gain a better understanding of themselves and their patterns of behavior.

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Behavioral Therapy

It's a type of therapy that focuses on addressing specific behaviors that contribute to anxiety.

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What is free association in psychoanalysis?

Freud believed that the unconscious mind holds repressed thoughts and memories, and these can be revealed through talking. This technique involves a patient freely expressing all thoughts without censorship, while the analyst listens for clues about repressed experiences.

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What are some appealing aspects of Freud's theory?

The idea that unconscious processing influences behavior and that early experiences shape development is appealing and true. The therapist-patient relationship also plays a crucial role.

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Why were Freud's ideas criticized and ultimately abandoned by academic psychology?

Psychodynamic theory is complex, its concepts are hard to test, and it relies heavily on patient reports and analyst interpretations. Additionally, it's time-consuming and expensive.

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What is the core principle behind cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on the idea that maladaptive thoughts and behaviors cause psychological problems. It uses principles of cognitive psychology and associative learning to treat symptoms.

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How does CBT differ from psychoanalysis in its approach to treatment?

CBT assumes that addressing the symptoms directly can lead to a resolution of the underlying disorder, unlike psychoanalysis which tries to delve into the unconscious.

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Who developed CBT and what was their main idea?

Aaron Beck, a psychiatrist, developed CBT in the 1960s, proposing that psychological issues are caused and maintained by negative thinking patterns and behaviors.

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What is the main approach of CBT?

CBT uses techniques based on evidence and research to modify specific thinking and behavioral patterns, aiming for measurable progress.

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Study Notes

Abnormal Psychology

  • Defining "normal" is crucial in medicine, encompassing understanding normal and abnormal ranges.
  • Abnormal psychology delves into mental health states and behaviors deviating from statistical averages regarded as 'healthy' by mental health professionals, acknowledging that these classifications are arbitrary.
  • Personal distress or impairment in function must be present in the individual to qualify as abnormal behavior.

Diagnosing Mental Disorders

  • Clinical psychologists (Ph.D., Psy.D.) and psychiatrists (M.D.) specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
  • The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) serves as a guidebook for diagnosing mental disorders, with its latest edition being DSM-5.
  • A disorder is diagnosed only if symptoms deviate from the statistical average, and indicate psychological dysfunction and/or personal distress or functioning impairment.

Depressive & Bipolar Disorders (Affective Disorders)

  • Unipolar Depression (Major Depressive Disorder): characterized by prolonged and continuous depression without periods of mania. It affects approximately 8% of the U.S. population annually, with women being affected two to three times more often than men. The typical onset age is 32.
  • Dysthymia is a milder, more chronic form of unipolar depression.
  • Symptoms of Unipolar Depression: Depressed mood, inability to experience pleasure, restlessness/irritability/anxiety, lack of energy/concentration, sleep disturbances, constipation, aches/pains, and thoughts of death/suicide.
  • Bipolar Disorder: characterized by cyclical shifts between depression and mania. Manic episodes can last from a few days to several months, while depressive periods typically last longer. Approximately 3% of the U.S. population is affected, with roughly equal prevalence among men and women and a median onset of 25. It is also important to note the milder version called Cyclothymia.
  • Symptoms of Mania: high energy, overly good mood, cognitive clarity, needing less sleep, distorted feelings of power, rapid/erratic speech, racing thoughts, impatience, and irritability.

Stress & Depression

  • The diathesis-stress model posits that depression stems from both a vulnerability to depression and significant life stressors.
  • Genetic predisposition and childhood adversity are contributing factors to vulnerability.
  • Individuals with few stressors and strong coping mechanisms have a low probability of developing depression, whereas those with many stressors and poor coping mechanisms have a high one.

Depression & Hippocampal Atrophy

  • There is a negative correlation between lifetime depression and hippocampal volume.

Anxiety & Trauma-Related Disorders

  • Anxiety disorders are characterized by persistent symptoms like tension, worry, overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, expectation of disaster, hypervigilance, irritability, and social avoidance.
  • Fear is triggered by immediate threats, while anxiety is rooted in anticipated future threats.
  • Anxiety disorders are grouped, including phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and separation anxiety disorder, and PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • PTSD results from extreme danger and stress.
  • Symptoms of PTSD include recurring recollections of past events and traumatic feelings, triggers that cause the trauma to resurface, extreme psychological distress, and hypervigilance.
  • Resilience rather than PTSD is the typical response to extreme trauma.
  • The number of traumatic events experienced and the presence of pre-existing anxiety disorders can increase the likelihood of developing PTSD.
  • Vulnerability, combined with traumatic experience, is a key factor in developing PTSD. A major predictive factor is a history of early life stressors/adverse experiences.
  • Neural circuits involved in emotion regulation may be altered for PTSD.

Treatment: The Pharmacological Approach

  • The monoamine hypothesis suggests that low levels of monoamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin) link to clinical depression.
  • Drugs like reserpine and iproniazid, while initially used for different conditions, demonstrated connections to mood states, and provided early clues regarding treatments.
  • Modern antidepressants target one or more monoamines, include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs).

Treatment: Psychotherapy

  • Psychoanalysis focuses on uncovering underlying conflicts to treat psychological disorders using free association as a technique.
  • Key aspects of psychoanalytic approach include finding root causes of disorders and treating resulting symptoms through therapy sessions.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Beck posits that maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors cause psychological disorders. Techniques use cognitive psychology and associative learning to treat symptoms via targeted therapy, with the core concept being "treating the symptoms treats the disorder".
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): a form of therapy merging CBT with mindfulness training. Its goal is to teach patients present moment awareness in a non-judgmental state to interrupt negative thought cycles.
  • Behavior and Exposure therapies include exposure techniques and systematic desensitization gradually confronting fears to reduce emotional impact, as well as virtual reality treatments becoming tools for phobias/PTSD.

Does psychotherapy work?

  • Yes, psychotherapy is effective for many conditions. CBT is often very effective, can uncover environmental and cognitive triggers that cause and sustain various psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety, and is often used in empirically-supported treatments used to reduce symptom severity with shorter treatments.

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Description

Test your knowledge on anxiety disorders and their psychological implications with this comprehensive quiz. Explore relationships between depression, hippocampal volume, and various symptoms associated with anxiety. Challenge yourself with questions that cover definitions, prevalence, and historical perspectives in psychology.

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