The etiology of abnormal psychology is a critical area of study in understanding the origins and development of psychological disorders. This study note will delve into the various explanations for disorders, focusing on Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and phobias. We will explore biological, cognitive, and sociocultural explanations, supported by key studies. Additionally, we will discuss the prevalence rates of these disorders and the factors influencing the diagnosis of abnormal behavior.
MDD is a pervasive mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and various cognitive and physical symptoms that impair daily functioning. Understanding its prevalence and etiology is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Biological Explanations of MDD
Biological explanations focus on genetic, neurochemical, and physiological factors contributing to MDD.
Key Studies:
- McGuffin et al. (1996): This study investigated the genetic similarity in twins to understand the heritability of MDD. The results showed a higher concordance rate for MDD in monozygotic twins compared to dizygotic twins, suggesting a genetic component.
- Caspi et al. (2003): This study explored the interaction between the 5-HTT gene (serotonin transporter gene) and environmental stressors. Individuals with a short allele of the 5-HTT gene were more likely to develop MDD after stressful life events.
Tip
When discussing genetic explanations, emphasize the interaction between genes and the environment (gene-environment interaction).
Cognitive Explanations of MDD
Cognitive theories suggest that dysfunctional thinking patterns and negative schemas contribute to the development and maintenance of MDD.
Key Studies:
- Beck et al. (1974): Beck’s cognitive theory posits that negative automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, and a negative cognitive triad (negative views about the self, world, and future) play a central role in MDD.
- Riso et al. (2006): This study examined the role of early maladaptive schemas (EMS) in MDD. The findings indicated that individuals with MDD often have stable and pervasive negative beliefs formed during childhood.
Example
For instance, someone with an abandonment schema may believe they are unlovable and expect others to leave them, contributing to depressive symptoms.
Sociocultural Explanations of MDD
Sociocultural factors include the influence of society, culture, and interpersonal relationships on the development of MDD.
Key Studies:
- Lewinsohn et al. (1990): This study highlighted the role of social reinforcement in MDD. Lack of positive reinforcement from social interactions can lead to a decrease in pleasurable activities, contributing to depression.
- Karasz (2005): This research focused on cultural differences in the expression and perception of depression. It emphasized that cultural context significantly affects how depressive symptoms are experienced and reported.
Note
Understanding cultural variations is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of MDD across different populations.
Phobias are characterized by intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations. They can significantly impair an individual’s daily functioning.
Biological Explanations of Phobias
Biological explanations focus on genetic predispositions and neurobiological mechanisms.
Key Studies:
- Ohman et al. (1975): This study investigated the role of evolutionary factors in phobias. It suggested that humans are biologically predisposed to develop fears of objects that posed threats to survival in ancestral environments.
- Ahs et al. (2018): This research examined the neural correlates of phobias using fMRI. The findings indicated heightened activity in the amygdala when individuals with phobias were exposed to phobic stimuli.
Tip
Highlight the role of the amygdala in fear processing when discussing biological explanations of phobias.
Cognitive Explanations of Phobias
Cognitive theories focus on how thought patterns and beliefs contribute to the development and maintenance of phobias.
Key Studies:
- Clark & Wells (1995): This model suggests that individuals with social phobia have distorted beliefs about social situations, leading to heightened anxiety and avoidance behaviors.
- Beck et al. (1985): Cognitive restructuring techniques are used to challenge and change irrational beliefs associated with phobias.
Common Mistake
Assuming that cognitive explanations only involve conscious thought processes. They also include automatic and unconscious cognitive distortions.
Sociocultural Explanations of Phobias
Sociocultural factors include the influence of cultural norms, family dynamics, and social learning on the development of phobias.
Key Studies:
- Bandura (1961): The Social Learning Theory suggests that phobias can be acquired through observational learning. For example, a child might develop a fear of dogs after observing a parent’s fearful reaction to dogs.
- Davey et al. (1997): This study examined the role of cultural transmission in the development of phobias. It found that cultural beliefs and practices can influence the types of phobias prevalent in different societies.
Example
In some cultures, fear of certain animals may be more common due to cultural myths and stories.
Determining what constitutes normal versus abnormal behavior is complex and influenced by various criteria.
Criteria for Diagnosing Abnormality
Clinicians use several measures to classify behaviors as abnormal:
- Statistical Deviation: Behavior that falls outside agreed statistical parameters (e.g., an IQ of less than 70).
- Failure to Function Adequately: Behavior that does not conform to accepted social standards (e.g., not washing or eating).
- Deviation from Social Norms: Behavior that is shocking or challenges social norms (e.g., someone wearing a plant pot on their head).
- Deviation from Ideal Mental Health: Behavior that is not 'perfect' for the individual (e.g., an inability to handle stress).
Note
These measures often overlap and are not mutually exclusive.
Evaluation of Measures
- Statistical Deviation:
- Strengths: Provides clear points of comparison and is easy to use as an analytical tool.
- Weaknesses: Does not account for cultural differences and may label non-conforming but functional individuals as abnormal.
- Failure to Function Adequately:
- Strengths: Considers the impact of behavior on daily functioning.
- Weaknesses: Subjective and influenced by cultural norms.
- Deviation from Social Norms:
- Strengths: Recognizes the role of societal expectations.
- Weaknesses: Can be biased and culturally relative.
- Deviation from Ideal Mental Health:
- Strengths: Holistic approach considering overall well-being.
- Weaknesses: Unrealistic and subjective.
Example
A person with high IQ might be statistically deviant but not necessarily abnormal in a functional sense.
Topic Key Studies Biological Explanations of MDD McGuffin et al. (1996), Caspi et al. (2003) Cognitive Explanations of MDD Beck et al. (1974), Riso et al. (2006) Sociocultural Explanations of MDD Lewinsohn et al. (1990), Karasz (2005) Biological Explanations of Phobias Ohman et al. (1975), Ahs et al. (2018) Cognitive Explanations of Phobias Clark & Wells (1995), Beck et al. (1985) Sociocultural Explanations of Phobias Bandura (1961), Davey et al. (1997)
Understanding the etiology of abnormal psychology involves exploring a range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural factors. By examining key studies and their findings, we gain a deeper insight into the complexities of disorders like MDD and phobias. This knowledge is essential for developing effective diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches.