Which of the following statements best reflects the sociocultural perspective on psychological disorders?

• A. Psychological disorders are solely the result of genetic inheritance and neurochemical imbalances.
• B. Psychological disorders are caused only by unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences.
• C. Psychological disorders are best understood as learned behaviors through classical and operant conditioning.
• D. Psychological disorders are influenced by social and cultural factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural norms, and discrimination.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that the sociocultural perspective in psychology emphasizes the role of social and cultural influences on behavior and mental processes.
2. Step 2: Recognize that this perspective considers factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural norms, family, community, and experiences of discrimination as important in shaping psychological disorders.
3. Step 3: Compare the given statements to see which one highlights the influence of social and cultural factors rather than biological, psychodynamic, or behavioral explanations.
4. Step 4: Identify that the statement mentioning psychological disorders being influenced by social and cultural factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural norms, and discrimination aligns best with the sociocultural perspective.
5. Step 5: Conclude that this perspective broadens understanding by integrating environmental and societal contexts into the explanation of psychological disorders.