5.3 Explaining and Classifying Psychological Disorders

Psychological disorders are complex conditions that affect a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Understanding how to identify, classify, and explain these disorders is crucial for mental health professionals and researchers.

Various perspectives, including behavioral, cognitive, and biological, offer different insights into the causes and treatments of mental disorders. The biopsychosocial model and diathesis-stress model provide integrated approaches to understanding these complex conditions.

Identifying Psychological Disorders

Psychologists look at several factors to determine whether a person has a psychological disorder. These factors help distinguish between typical behavior and signs of mental health concerns.

• Dysfunction – When thoughts, emotions, or behaviors interfere with daily life, such as difficulty maintaining relationships, working, or taking care of oneself.
• Distress – Feeling extreme sadness, anxiety, or emotional pain that affects well-being. However, some disorders may not cause distress to the person but may impact others.
• Deviation from Social Norms – Behaviors that are very different from what is considered normal in a culture, such as unpredictable emotional reactions or difficulty understanding social expectations.

Since mental health exists on a spectrum, no single factor alone determines a disorder. Instead, psychologists consider a combination of these factors to assess and diagnose mental health conditions.

Impact of Diagnosing Psychological Disorders

Classifying psychological disorders can have both benefits and challenges. The effects of a diagnosis depend on the nature of the disorder, the individual receiving it, and the cultural and societal context.

Positive effects of diagnosis:

• Helps individuals understand their condition and seek appropriate treatment
• Provides a framework for mental health professionals to develop treatment plans
• Allows for access to support groups, therapy, and medical care
• Reduces self-blame by identifying a condition as a medical or psychological issue rather than a personal failure

Negative effects of diagnosis:

• Can lead to stigma, making individuals feel labeled or judged by society
• May reinforce discrimination based on factors like race, gender, age, or socioeconomic status
• Some cultures may not recognize certain disorders or may view mental health struggles differently, affecting treatment acceptance
• A diagnosis can sometimes limit opportunities in areas like employment, education, or social relationships if others react negatively

Diagnosing Psychological Disorders

Diagnosing psychological disorders requires specialized training and the use of evidence-based tools. Mental health professionals rely on classification systems to ensure accurate and consistent diagnoses.

Two major classification systems are used worldwide. These systems are regularly updated to reflect new research and improvements in mental health treatment. Using standardized guidelines helps ensure that diagnoses are based on scientific evidence rather than personal opinions or cultural biases. Proper diagnosis allows individuals to receive the right treatment and support for their mental health needs.

The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual):

• Developed by the American Psychiatric Association
• Primary diagnostic tool in the United States
• Updated periodically to reflect current research

The ICD (International Classification of Diseases):

• Created by the World Health Organization
• Used internationally
• Provides standardized diagnostic criteria

How each psychological perspective views disorders

Psychologists use different perspectives to understand and diagnose mental disorders. Each perspective focuses on different causes and contributing factors, helping to create a more complete picture of mental health.

Eclectic Perspective

Most psychologists use an eclectic approach, meaning they draw from multiple psychological perspectives when diagnosing and treating clients. Instead of relying on just one theory or method, they combine different approaches to best fit the needs of each individual.

This approach allows psychologists to:

• Consider biological factors, such as brain function and genetics, when understanding mental health conditions.
• Use cognitive and behavioral techniques to help clients change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Explore emotional and unconscious influences, as seen in psychodynamic therapy.
• Address social and cultural influences, recognizing how relationships and societal expectations impact mental health.

Behavioral Perspective

Mental disorders can develop through learned associations between experiences and responses. If a person repeatedly connects a situation with stress or fear, they may develop unhealthy behaviors in response.

• Learned behaviors, such as avoidance or unhealthy coping mechanisms, can contribute to mental disorders.
• Conditioning, both classical and operant, plays a role in shaping behavior.
• Therapy often focuses on relearning healthier responses through reinforcement and behavioral techniques.

Psychodynamic Perspective

Unconscious thoughts and early life experiences shape mental health. Many emotional struggles may come from conflicts or unresolved feelings buried in the subconscious.

• Childhood experiences can influence adult emotions and behaviors.
• Unconscious fears, desires, or traumas may contribute to psychological distress.
• Therapy helps uncover these hidden influences and bring them into awareness.

Humanistic Perspective

Mental disorders may arise when people feel disconnected, unsupported, or unable to reach their full potential. A lack of personal growth and social support can lead to distress.

• Feeling unfulfilled or lacking purpose can contribute to emotional struggles.
• Strong relationships and a sense of belonging help with mental well-being.
• Therapy encourages self-acceptance, personal growth, and building meaningful connections.

Cognitive Perspective

The way people think affects how they feel and behave. Negative thought patterns, unrealistic beliefs, and distorted perceptions can lead to mental health challenges.

• Persistent negative thinking can increase stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Cognitive distortions, such as overgeneralizing or catastrophizing, can impact emotions.
• Therapy helps individuals recognize and change unhelpful thoughts.

Evolutionary Perspective

Some behaviors and mental processes that were once useful for survival may contribute to psychological disorders today. Traits that helped early humans adapt might now lead to difficulties in modern life.

• Fear and anxiety once helped ancestors avoid danger but may now cause excessive stress.
• Social behaviors that ensured group survival may contribute to issues like social anxiety.
• Understanding these traits can help in managing and adapting responses.

Sociocultural Perspective

Social and cultural environments shape mental health. The way people experience and express psychological distress can be influenced by relationships, community expectations, and societal pressures.

• Discrimination, poverty, and cultural norms can impact mental well-being.
• Social expectations and roles may contribute to stress and anxiety.
• Therapy may focus on understanding external influences and building coping strategies.

Biological Perspective

Mental disorders can have a physiological or genetic basis. Brain function, neurotransmitters, and inherited traits all play a role in mental health.

• Chemical imbalances in the brain can contribute to mood and behavior changes.
• Genetic factors may increase the likelihood of developing certain disorders.
• Medical treatments, such as medication, can help restore balance alongside therapy.

Interaction Models of Psychological Disorders

Psychological disorders do not usually have a single cause. Instead, they develop through a combination of different influences. Interaction models help explain how biological, psychological, and environmental factors work together to shape mental health.

Biopsychosocial model of disorders

This model suggests that mental disorders result from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. No single factor alone causes a disorder, but instead, they interact to influence a person’s mental health.

• Biological influences (genetics, brain chemistry, and physical health conditions)
• Psychological factors (thoughts, emotions, behaviors, patterns, coping skills)
• Social elements (relationships, cultural expectations, environment, life circumstances)

Because this model considers multiple influences, treatment often combines medical, psychological, and social support approaches. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes may all play a role in improving mental health.

Diathesis-Stress Model

This model explains that some people have a genetic or biological vulnerability to developing a disorder, but it only becomes active when combined with stressful life events.

• Diathesis refers to a person’s inherited traits or predisposition for a disorder.
• Stress includes challenging experiences like trauma, loss, or ongoing difficulties.

For example, someone with a family history of depression may not develop symptoms unless they go through a stressful event, such as job loss or a major life change. This model highlights the importance of both genetics and environment in shaping mental health.