In the context of diagnosing psychological disorders, which theoretical perspective suggests that problem behaviors often occur because of skill deficits?

• A. Humanistic perspective
• B. Psychoanalytic perspective
• C. Behavioral perspective
• D. Biological perspective

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question asks which theoretical perspective links problem behaviors to skill deficits, meaning a lack of necessary skills to behave adaptively.
2. Recall that the Humanistic perspective focuses on personal growth and self-actualization, not specifically on skill deficits causing problem behaviors.
3. Consider the Psychoanalytic perspective, which emphasizes unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences rather than skill deficits.
4. Recognize that the Behavioral perspective explains problem behaviors as learned behaviors or the result of missing skills needed to perform adaptive behaviors effectively.
5. Note that the Biological perspective attributes psychological disorders to genetic, neurological, or physiological causes, not skill deficits.