Explaining mental health disorders
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Flip to reveal answersThree ways to explain a mental-health disorder?
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Question
Three ways to explain a mental-health disorder?
Answer
Biological (chemistry/genes), cognitive (thinking patterns), sociocultural (social factors/stigma).
Question
Biological explanation of depression?
Answer
Neurotransmitter differences (e.g. serotonin) and genetic vulnerability, via the diathesis-stress model.
Question
Cognitive explanation of depression?
Answer
Negative thinking patterns and biases that deepen low mood.
Question
Sociocultural explanation of depression?
Answer
Isolation, loss, poverty, discrimination, and cultural stigma.
Question
What is the biopsychosocial model?
Answer
Biological, psychological and social factors interact to cause a disorder.
Question
Why is 'just a chemical imbalance' criticised?
Answer
It is reductionist — the evidence points to interacting causes, not one.
Question
One strength of the biological explanation?
Answer
It explains why medication can help, and there is genetic evidence.
Question
One strength of the sociocultural explanation?
Answer
It explains social patterns and the effects of stigma on help-seeking.
Question
Why does combined treatment often work best?
Answer
Because the causes interact, so treating body, mind and situation together helps more.
Question
Are studies examinable here?
Answer
No — studies are illustrative; hypothetical or real examples in your own words are fine.
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Full study notes for Explaining mental health disorders
Topic 3.1 hub
Health and well-being
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