MPH - Explaining and Classifying Psychological Disorders Lesson
Learning Targets:
- Identify the methods used to classify behaviors and mental processes as psychological disorders.
- Discuss how various psychological theories define psychological disorders.
- Describe how interaction models conceptualize psychological disorders.
Courtesy of the AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2024. (n.d.). Links to an external site.
Navigating Typical vs. Disordered Behavior
Understanding the distinction between typical behavior and a psychological disorder can be complex yet crucial. A psychological disorder is characterized by a cluster of symptoms that disrupt an individual's thoughts, emotions, or behaviors, leading to distress or suffering. These manifestations are dysfunctional, hindering normal day-to-day functioning. It is important to recognize that societal norms concerning acceptable behavior can evolve. By being aware of these nuances, we can better comprehend and support individuals experiencing mental health challenges while fostering a more inclusive and understanding community.
Evolution of Therapy in Psychology
Our understanding of mental health and treatments has evolved over centuries, shaped by different views on the nature of psychological disorders. Early therapies for psychological disorders often involved extreme and brutal methods, reflecting a belief that supernatural forces or moral failings caused mental illness. However, early reformers like Philippe Pinel in the 18th-century, challenged these cruel practices and advocated for more humane approaches. Pinel introduced moral treatment, emphasizing treating patients with kindness, respect, and understanding. This approach included simple yet revolutionary actions like unchaining patients and engaging in compassionate conversations to boost their spirits. Despite these advancements, remnants of cruel treatments still persist in modern times, underscoring the ongoing importance of advocating for compassionate and effective therapies in psychology.
Understanding Psychological Disorders Through the Medical Model
The medical model of understanding psychological disorders suggests that these conditions have physical causes that can be diagnosed, treated, and often cured, typically through hospital treatment. This perspective marks a shift from the historical use of asylums towards hospitals as the primary treatment centers for mental health. The mental health movement ushered in the idea that mental illnesses should be diagnosed based on symptoms and managed through therapy. Recent scientific findings have further supported the medical model, revealing that genetic factors, brain functioning, and biochemistry abnormalities play significant roles in the development of various psychological disorders.
The Biopsychosocial Approach and the Diathesis-Stress Model
The biopsychosocial approach and the diathesis-stress model are two key frameworks that help us comprehend the development of psychological disorders. The biopsychosocial model posits that psychological problems arise from a blend of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. For instance, consider someone experiencing depression. From a biological standpoint, genetic predispositions may play a role, while psychological factors like personal beliefs and sociocultural influences such as familial relationships can also contribute.
The diathesis-stress model suggests that genetic vulnerability (diathesis) combined with stressful life events (stress) can lead to the manifestation of psychological disorders. An example of this could be someone with a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders who develops symptoms after experiencing a traumatic event. The concept of comorbidity, which refers to the occurrence of multiple disorders in an individual, can be understood through both frameworks. For instance, a person with a genetic predisposition to depression may also develop an eating disorder due to societal pressures, demonstrating how biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors intertwine in the development of psychological disorders.
Examples of how the biopsychosocial approach and diathesis-stress model can be applied to certain disorders:
| Disorder | Biopsychosocial Approach | Diathesis-Stress Model |
|---|---|---|
| Depression | In the case of depression, the biopsychosocial model would consider biological factors such as neurotransmitter imbalances, psychological factors like negative thought patterns or cognitive distortions, and sociocultural factors such as societal stigma surrounding mental health. For example, a person with a family history of depression (biological), who experiences a traumatic event (psychological), and faces social isolation (sociocultural) may be more prone to developing depression. | For depression, the diathesis-stress model would focus on the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental stressors. A person with a genetic vulnerability to depression may only exhibit symptoms after experiencing significant life stressors like loss of a loved one or job instability. |
| Anxiety Disorders | When examining anxiety disorders through the biopsychosocial lens, biological factors such as overactive amygdala (fight-or-flight response), psychological factors like irrational fears or phobias, and sociocultural factors such as societal pressure to succeed can all contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. | In the context of anxiety disorders, the diathesis-stress model would highlight how genetic predispositions to heightened stress responses can be triggered by stressful life events like public speaking or social interactions, leading to the onset of anxiety disorders. |
Psychological Disorder Classification
Psychological disorders are classified using the DSM-5-TR, which stands for the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision. This system is widely used to categorize and diagnose various psychological disorders. However, some critics argue that the DSM may be overly inclusive, potentially labeling normal behaviors as disorders. This debate highlights the complexity and nuances involved in classifying psychological conditions.
Psychologists utilize various psychological perspectives when classifying psychological disorders to diagnose and treat clients comprehensively. By employing an eclectic approach, which involves using multiple perspectives, psychologists can better understand the causes behind psychological disorders. These perspectives offer distinct viewpoints that help in interpreting and addressing psychological disorders, with each perspective bringing its strengths and limitations to the table. An eclectic treatment approach then involves incorporating elements from different perspectives to provide a well-rounded and effective intervention for individuals experiencing psychological disorders.
The main purpose of this classification is to predict how the disorder may progress in the future and to recommend suitable treatment options. Additionally, diagnostic labels prompt further research into the underlying causes of these disorders.
Please refer to the dialogue cards below for information on each perspective and how it explains psychological disorders:
Watch the video below on Introduction to Mental Disorders.
The Labeling Controversy
Despite these intentions, some psychologists criticize diagnostic labels for various reasons, such as the potential stigmatization they can create or the limitations they may impose on understanding the complexity of individual experiences. The debate around the classification of psychological disorders continues as professionals work to balance the benefits of standardized labels with the need for considering the unique aspects of each person's mental health.
In 1973, Stanford University Professor David Rosenhan published the findings of a study he conducted called "On Being Sane in Insane Places". In the study, he assigned pseudo-patients to twelve different mental health institutions across the United States. The participants went to the institutions claiming that they were hearing voices. All twelve were admitted and diagnosed with mental illnesses (all but one was diagnosed with some type of schizophrenia).
After admission, they acted normally and told the hospital staff, they were no longer hearing voices. However, before being released all were forced to admit to having a mental illness and taking antipsychotic drugs. The average stay in the hospital was 19 days. While in the hospital all were treated as if they had the disorder regardless of their actions.
Labels can have both positive and negative consequences, and it is important to keep these factors in mind when employing and interpreting them. The impact of diagnostic labels on individuals and society should be considered by clinicians and researchers, and efforts should be made to promote accurate and compassionate approaches to mental health diagnosis and treatment.
Positive Consequences of Diagnostic Labels
Negative Consequences of Diagnostic Labels
Suicide Risk Factors and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Suicide rates vary among different groups due to a multitude of factors. Researchers have identified differences based on nationality, race, gender, occupation, age, and various trends over the years. It's crucial to recognize these disparities to provide better support and prevention strategies. Additionally, understanding non-suicidal self-injury is essential. While it may not involve a direct intent to die, it is often a coping mechanism for emotional distress or mental health struggles. Both suicide risk factors and non-suicidal self-injury require awareness, empathy, and effective interventions to promote mental well-being.
Psychological Disorders and Risk Factors
Psychological disorders affect a significant portion of the population, with estimates suggesting that around 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience a mental illness in a given year. Rates of psychological disorders can indeed vary by location, influenced by factors such as access to mental health services, societal attitudes towards mental health, and cultural norms. Certain risk factors can increase vulnerability to mental disorders, including genetic predispositions, traumatic life events, substance abuse, and chronic stress. Mental disorders can surface at any stage of life, but they often first emerge in adolescence or early adulthood. Additionally, poverty is considered a risk factor for mental illness, as it can impact access to quality healthcare and support systems. In some cases, certain disorders like schizophrenia can also lead individuals into poverty due to the significant challenges they pose in daily functioning.
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