Download Module 36 Chapter 110 Essentials of Understanding

Module 38
Psychological Disorders in Perspective
Chapter 12
Essentials of Understanding Psychology- Sixth Edition
PSY110 Psychology
© Richard Goldman
November 21, 2006
How common are Psychological Disorders?
48% of Americans will experience a
psychological disorder in their lifetime.
30% of Americans will experience a
psychological disorder in each year
Most Common:
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Depression (17% Lifetime – 10% Year)
Alcohol Dependence (7% Year)
Drug Dependency
Panic Disorders
Post Traumatic Stress
Cross-Cultural Differences
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Likelihood of Depression in Lifetime:
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1.5%
2.9%
11.6%
16.4%
Taiwan
Korea
New Zealand
France
Normal verses Abnormal
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PMS (Premenstrual syndrome) or
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
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Characterized by:
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Severe mood changes
Depression
Normal female behavior
Included in DSM-IV-TR (should it be?)
Cross-Cultural Differences
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Do you have a psychological problems if:
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Do diseases such a schizophrenia manifest in the
same manner in all cultures?
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India – 80% of schizophrenic patients are cationic
Are diseases such anorexia nervosa found in all
societies?
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You hear voices of the dead?
God speaks to you?
India – anorexia nervosa does not exist
Have you ever heard of Koro (intense fear of the
testicles being drawn into the abdomen) in
America?
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Normally only found in Southwest Asian males
Medical Student’s Disease
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Feeling that you suffer from the same sorts of
problems that you are studying.
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Easy to jump to conclusions
The line between normal and abnormal is very
fuzzy
Everyone experience a wide range of emotions
from time to time – This is normal
Persistent or extremely severe swings may not
normal
When Should You Seek Help
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Long-term feelings of distress that interferes with
your sense of well-being
Occasions of overwhelming high stress
Prolonged depression – sense of helplessness
Withdrawal from other people
Chronic physical symptoms without a physical
problem
Phobias that interfere with normal activities
Fear that people are out to get you
Inability to effectively interact with others