Perspectives on Psychological Disorders: Videos & Practice Problems

The diathesis-stress model explains psychological disorders as a result of an internal vulnerability (diathesis) combined with environmental stressors. Diathesis can include genetic predispositions, cognitive biases, or adverse childhood experiences. In contrast, the biopsychosocial model emphasizes a holistic view, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding disorders. This model illustrates that the same disorder can arise from different causes, highlighting the need for diverse treatment approaches tailored to individual circumstances, such as pharmacological therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or community support.

Diathesis-Stress Model

The diathesis-stress model is a psychological framework that explains how psychological disorders can develop through the interaction of internal vulnerabilities and external stressors. The term "diathesis" refers to an individual's inherent predisposition or vulnerability to a disorder, which can stem from various factors such as genetic predispositions, atypical neurological development, cognitive biases, or adverse childhood experiences. These internal traits create a constellation of vulnerabilities that may increase susceptibility to psychological disorders.

However, the presence of a diathesis alone does not guarantee the manifestation of a disorder. It is the combination of this internal vulnerability with external stressors that triggers the onset of psychological issues. Common stressors include traumatic experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse, significant losses (like the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship), and pressures from work or academic environments.

To visualize this model, consider a graph where the y-axis represents the severity of symptoms and the x-axis represents the level of stress. Individuals without a diathesis show stable symptom levels regardless of stress, while those with a diathesis exhibit increasing symptoms as stress levels rise. This illustrates that while low stress may not affect either group significantly, higher stress levels can lead to a marked increase in symptoms for those with an internal vulnerability.

It is crucial to recognize that while the diathesis-stress model is well-supported by research, it does not encompass all psychological disorders or account for every individual's experience. Other models exist that also provide valuable insights into the complexities of psychological disorders. Therefore, while the diathesis-stress model is a useful tool for understanding the interplay between internal and external factors, it is not a comprehensive explanation for all psychological conditions.

Example 1

The diathesis-stress model is a psychological framework that explains how internal vulnerabilities (diatheses) interact with external stressors to influence the development of psychological disorders. In this model, individuals with a diathesis are more likely to manifest symptoms of a disorder when exposed to significant stress. Understanding this model can be illustrated through various graphical representations of symptom severity in relation to stress levels.

When analyzing different graphs, we can identify which one aligns with the diathesis-stress model. For instance, in Graph A, two populations are represented by purple and orange lines, showing minimal differences in symptom severity regardless of stress levels. Both populations remain stable, indicating that neither is significantly affected by stress, which does not support the diathesis-stress model.

In contrast, Graph B demonstrates a clear divergence between the two populations under varying stress conditions. Initially, both populations exhibit similar symptom levels under low stress, which is expected. However, as stress increases, the purple line (representing the diathesis population) shows a marked increase in symptoms, while the orange line (representing the non-diathesis population) remains relatively unaffected. This pattern exemplifies the diathesis-stress model, as it illustrates how individuals with an internal vulnerability are more susceptible to developing psychological disorders when faced with high stress.

Lastly, Graph C introduces a concept known as differential susceptibility. In this graph, the purple population exhibits better mental health than the orange population under low stress conditions, which contrasts with the expectations of the diathesis-stress model. This indicates that individuals with certain vulnerabilities may also possess strengths that enhance their resilience in low-stress environments, highlighting a different interaction between stress and psychological outcomes.

In summary, the diathesis-stress model is effectively illustrated by Graph B, where the interaction between internal vulnerabilities and external stressors leads to increased psychological symptoms, while Graph A and Graph C depict different patterns that do not align with this model.

Which of the following are examples of diathesis?
I. Particular thought patterns (ex: fixations on negative events)
II. Adverse childhood experiences.
III. Heightened activation of particular brain regions.

• A. I & II.
• B. I & III.
• C. II & III.
• D. I, II, & III

Answer: (D)

The Biopsychosocial Model

The biopsychosocial model offers a comprehensive framework for understanding psychological disorders by integrating biological, psychological, and social factors. This holistic perspective emphasizes that disorders arise from a complex interplay of these elements rather than a single cause. Biological factors include genetic predispositions, hormone levels, neurotransmitter activity, and brain structure, all of which can influence an individual's mental health. Psychological factors encompass cognitive processes, emotional states, perceptions, and learning experiences, while social factors involve environmental stressors and cultural contexts that shape an individual's experiences.

For instance, consider two individuals with depression. The first may have a strong biological basis for his condition, possibly due to genetic factors or low serotonin levels. In contrast, another individual might experience depression primarily due to psychological factors, such as a tendency to ruminate on negative experiences. A third person may find that social factors, like recent bereavement, are the main contributors to her depression. This variability illustrates how the same disorder can manifest differently across individuals, highlighting the necessity for tailored treatment approaches.

Effective treatment strategies must align with the underlying causes of the disorder. For example, the individual with a biological basis for depression may benefit from pharmacological interventions, such as antidepressants, to help regulate neurotransmitter levels. The person whose depression is driven by cognitive patterns might find cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) particularly beneficial, as it focuses on reshaping negative thought processes. Meanwhile, the individual affected by social factors may gain the most from community support or grief counseling, which addresses the emotional and social dimensions of her experience.

Ultimately, the biopsychosocial model underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to mental health treatment, ensuring that interventions are as diverse as the factors contributing to psychological disorders.

Example 2

Naya, a 19-year-old psychology student, is experiencing anxiety, which can be understood through the biopsychosocial model, highlighting the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in her condition.

From a biological perspective, several elements could contribute to Naya's anxiety. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to stress responses, may play a significant role. Additionally, neurotransmitter imbalances, such as low levels of serotonin or dopamine, can affect mood regulation. Neuroanatomical factors, including variations in brain structure or function, might also be relevant. Furthermore, if Naya has a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders, this could increase her vulnerability to developing anxiety symptoms.

Psychologically, Naya may exhibit cognitive biases that exacerbate her anxiety. For instance, a tendency toward negative thinking, where she focuses on potential threats or failures, can lead to heightened worry and rumination. This fixation on perceived shortcomings or negative events can create a cycle of anxiety, making it difficult for her to manage stress effectively.

Social factors are equally important in understanding Naya's anxiety. Being away from home and her family while studying at university can lead to feelings of isolation. If she lacks a strong support network or struggles to maintain connections with friends from her hometown, this absence of social support may intensify her feelings of anxiety. The transition to university life can be challenging, and without adequate social resources, Naya may find it difficult to cope with the pressures of her new environment.

In summary, Naya's anxiety can be viewed as a complex interplay of biological predispositions, psychological patterns of thinking, and social circumstances, all of which contribute to her overall mental health and well-being.

Which of the following is a strength of the biopsychosocial perspective?

• A. It highlights the impact of stress in bringing about mental disorders.
• B. It focuses on the cultural aspect of psychopathology, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of how culture impacts mental disorders.
• C. It focuses on the precise identification of the physiological components of mental disorders.
• D. It provides a holistic explanation for psychological disorders; demonstrating how disorders can have different causes across individuals.

Answer: (D)

Here’s what students ask on this topic:

What is the diathesis-stress model in psychology?

The diathesis-stress model explains psychological disorders as the result of an internal vulnerability (diathesis) combined with environmental stressors. A diathesis can include genetic predispositions, atypical neurological development, cognitive biases, or adverse childhood experiences. These vulnerabilities alone do not cause disorders; they require the presence of stressors, such as trauma, abuse, loss, or work-related pressure, to trigger symptoms. The model highlights how individuals with a diathesis are more likely to develop disorders under high stress compared to those without such vulnerabilities. While the model is well-supported by research, it is not a universal explanation for all psychological disorders, as some may arise from other factors or circumstances. This perspective underscores the complexity of mental health and the interplay between internal and external factors.

How does the biopsychosocial model explain psychological disorders?

The biopsychosocial model provides a holistic explanation for psychological disorders by integrating biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors include genetic predispositions, neurotransmitter imbalances, and brain anatomy. Psychological factors involve cognition, emotions, perception, and memory. Social factors encompass environmental stressors, cultural context, and interpersonal relationships. This model demonstrates how the same disorder can have different causes across individuals. For example, depression in one person may stem from biological factors like low serotonin levels, while another’s depression may be driven by psychological tendencies such as rumination, or social factors like grief. The model emphasizes the importance of diverse treatment approaches, such as pharmacological therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or community support, tailored to the individual’s unique combination of contributing factors.

What are examples of diathesis in the diathesis-stress model?

Examples of diathesis in the diathesis-stress model include genetic predispositions, such as a family history of depression or substance abuse, atypical neurological development due to neurodivergence or early brain injury, cognitive biases like a tendency to ruminate on negative events, and adverse childhood experiences such as neglect or abuse. These internal vulnerabilities increase the likelihood of developing psychological disorders when combined with external stressors, such as trauma, loss, or chronic pressure. However, diathesis alone does not guarantee the manifestation of a disorder; it requires the presence of stress to trigger symptoms. This model highlights the interplay between internal traits and external circumstances in mental health.

Why is the biopsychosocial model important for treatment planning?

The biopsychosocial model is crucial for treatment planning because it recognizes that psychological disorders can arise from different combinations of biological, psychological, and social factors. This understanding allows for personalized treatment approaches tailored to the individual’s unique needs. For instance, someone whose depression is driven by biological factors may benefit from pharmacological therapy, while another person with depression rooted in psychological factors might respond better to cognitive behavioral therapy. Similarly, social factors like grief may require community support or group therapy. By addressing the specific causes of a disorder, the biopsychosocial model ensures more effective and comprehensive care, improving outcomes for individuals with diverse mental health challenges.

How do stressors contribute to psychological disorders in the diathesis-stress model?

In the diathesis-stress model, stressors act as environmental triggers that interact with an individual’s internal vulnerability (diathesis) to cause psychological disorders. Common stressors include trauma (physical, sexual, or emotional), abuse, loss (of a loved one, home, or relationship), and chronic pressure from work or school. While individuals without a diathesis may remain stable under stress, those with a diathesis are more likely to experience heightened symptoms and develop disorders when exposed to significant stress. The model illustrates how the combination of internal and external factors leads to the manifestation of mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of managing stress and addressing vulnerabilities to prevent disorders.