Discussion: Models Of Abnormal Psychology
From the reading, we learned about the following theoretical orientations that have emerged in psychology to address issues of abnormality and mental suffering: the biological model, the psychodynamic model, the behavioral model, the cognitive model, the humanistic-existential model, and the sociocultural model.
For the discussion board this week, respond to the following:
Biological, behavioral, and psychodynamic models of abnormal psychology all suggest that humans are affected by causes unique to their lives that are beyond each of our abilities to be fully aware of. For biological models, for instance, these would be our neurochemistry and genetic makeup (i.e., we are the effects of our biology), for behavioral models these would be the sum total of social conditioning that has shaped our behaviors (i.e., we are the effects of our conditioning), and for psychodynamic models these would be our unconscious thoughts and desires determined by our early relationships with caregivers (i.e., we are the effects of our unconscious).
Paragraph 1) If you worked as a mental health professional, do you think it could be helpful for you to assume that the individuals you are working with are suffering from causes that are ultimately beyond their full awareness and control? Why or why not?
Paragraph 2-3) Explain how other theoretical models of abnormal psychology, aside from the three named above, might challenge the assumption that individual suffering is caused by factors that are completely beyond each individual's control. Discuss how treatment might look different if you were to utilize these models instead.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.