In the context of diagnosing psychological disorders, the etiology of a mental disorder refers to its

• A. recommended treatment
• B. prognosis or likely outcome
• C. observable symptoms
• D. cause or origin

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'etiology' in the context of psychology, which refers to the cause or origin of a mental disorder rather than its treatment, prognosis, or symptoms.
2. Recognize that etiology focuses on identifying factors that contribute to the development of a disorder, such as genetic, environmental, or psychological influences.
3. Differentiate etiology from other related concepts: treatment (how to manage the disorder), prognosis (the likely course or outcome), and symptoms (observable signs of the disorder).
4. Apply this understanding to diagnostic processes by considering etiology as the foundational explanation for why a disorder occurs.
5. Conclude that when asked about etiology, the correct response is the cause or origin of the mental disorder.