Learning Targets:

Identify the symptoms and potential causes of various dissociative disorders.
Explain the symptoms and possible origins of different personality disorders.
Outline the symptoms and potential causes of various feeding and eating disorders.
Describe the symptoms and possible causes of selected neurodevelopment disorders.

Courtesy of the AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2024. (n.d.).

Dissociative Disorders

Awareness and recognition are gone, memories obstructed, and one's identity is lost.

Dissociative disorders are mental health conditions that involve disruptions or breakdowns of memory, awareness, identity, emotion, perception, body representation, motor control, and behavior. These disorders are relatively rare but can have a significant impact on individuals who experience them. One example of a dissociative disorder is dissociative fugue, where a person suddenly and unexpectedly travels away from home or their usual surroundings and may not remember their past identity. This state of dissociation often occurs due to extreme stress or trauma. When experiencing a dissociative fugue, individuals may create new identities and have no recollection of their previous life. This sudden and dramatic change can be distressing for both the individual and their loved ones, highlighting the complex nature of dissociative disorders.

Learn more about dissociative identity disorder in the video below.

Personality Disorders

Personality disorders are mental health conditions that are divided into three clusters based on their characteristics. These disorders involve consistent patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that differ significantly from what is considered normal in a particular culture. They are inflexible, persistent, and typically emerge during adolescence or early adulthood. Individuals with personality disorders often experience distress and impairment in various areas of their lives.

The potential causes of personality disorders stem from a combination of biological, genetic, social, cultural, behavioral, and cognitive factors. While the exact cause of each specific disorder can vary, these sources play a significant role in shaping an individual's development and how their personality traits manifest. Understanding these causes is crucial in diagnosing and effectively treating individuals with personality disorders.

Cluster A: Odd or eccentric, includes paranoid, schzoid and schizotypal personality disorders.

Cluster B - dramatic, emotional or erratic includes antisocial, histrionic, narcissistic, and borderline personality disorder

Cluster c - anxious or fearful, includes avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders

Personality Disorders

Personality Disorders
Personality Disorder	Description (American Psychiatric Association, 2022)
Paranoid personality disorder	Persistent suspicion and distrust of others
Schizoid personality disorder	Social withdrawal and limited expression of emotions
Schizotypal personality disorder	Severe discomfort in social settings; unusual thoughts or perceptions; odd behavior
Antisocial personality disorder	Disregard for others' rights; impulsive actions; engagement in criminal behavior
Borderline personality disorder	Impulsivity; unstable relationships and self-concept
Histrionic personality disorder	Dramatic emotional displays; strong need for attention
Narcissistic personality disorder	Excessive self-importance; seeking admiration; lack of empathy
Avoidant personality disorder	Social avoidance; feelings of inadequacy; high sensitivity to negative evaluation
Dependent personality disorder	Excessive need to be taken care of; submissive and clinging behavior
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder	Preoccupation with orderliness and control; perfectionism

Feeding and Eating Disorders

Feeding and eating disorders encompass a range of conditions that can significantly impact one's physical and mental well-being. Individuals who experience these disorders may display a variety of symptoms, such as severe restriction of food intake, excessive preoccupation with body weight or shape, binge eating episodes, and purging behaviors. These behaviors can lead to serious health consequences, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, and disruptions in normal growth and development. Eating disorders frequently occur alongside other mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and treatment typically addresses these comorbid conditions.

The causes of feeding and eating disorders are complex and can stem from various sources. Biological factors, such as genetics and irregularities in brain chemistry, may play a role in predisposing individuals to these disorders. Additionally, social and cultural influences, such as societal pressures to attain unrealistic body standards, can contribute to the development of disordered eating behaviors. Behavioral and cognitive factors, such as low self-esteem or difficulties coping with emotions, may also influence the onset and perpetuation of feeding and eating disorders. Overall, a combination of biological, genetic, social, cultural, and psychological factors can contribute to the development of these challenging conditions.

Neurodevelopment Disorders

Neurodevelopment disorders are a group of conditions that typically become apparent during the developmental period. These disorders affect the functioning of the brain and can impact a person's behavior, learning ability, and social interactions. Symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders often revolve around whether an individual is displaying behaviors that align with their age or expected level of maturity. Possible causes of these disorders can vary and may be linked to environmental factors, physiological issues, or genetic predispositions. Early detection, diagnosis, and appropriate interventions are crucial in managing neurodevelopmental disorders effectively.

[CC BY 4.0] UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED | IMAGES: LICENSED AND USED ACCORDING TO TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION