Compare and contrast normal and abnormal psychology.
· Examine at least two mental disorders and two mental illnesses from the perspective of psychology.
· Discuss the similarities and differences among the therapies for each school of thought in psychology for treating mental disorders.
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To compare and contrast normal and abnormal psychology, let's first understand their definitions.
Normal psychology refers to the study of typical human behavior and mental processes. It focuses on understanding and explaining how individuals function within the range of what is considered normal.
On the other hand, abnormal psychology is concerned with the study of unusual patterns of behavior, emotions, and thoughts that deviate from what is considered normal within a particular cultural and societal context.
Now let's examine two mental disorders and two mental illnesses from the perspective of psychology:
1. Anxiety Disorder:
- Description: Anxiety disorders involve excessive and persistent worry, fear, or anxiety that can significantly impact an individual's daily life.
- Examples: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Panic Disorder.
- Psychological Perspective: Abnormal psychology examines the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for anxiety disorders.
2. Depressive Disorder:
- Description: Depressive disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
- Examples: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD).
- Psychological Perspective: Abnormal psychology investigates the factors contributing to depressive disorders and the various treatment approaches.
Now, let's discuss the similarities and differences among the therapies for each school of thought in psychology for treating mental disorders. Here, we'll consider two commonly used therapeutic approaches:
1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
- Similarities: CBT is effective in treating both anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. The focus of CBT is on identifying and altering negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to the disorders.
- Differences: In the case of anxiety disorders, CBT often includes exposure therapy, where individuals gradually confront their fears or anxieties. For depressive disorders, CBT may incorporate behavioral activation techniques to increase engagement in positive activities.
2. Psychodynamic Therapy:
- Similarities: Psychodynamic therapy can be used for treating both anxiety and depressive disorders. It emphasizes understanding unconscious conflicts and unresolved traumas as contributing factors to psychological distress.
- Differences: Psychodynamic therapy for anxiety disorders might explore past experiences and early relationships that influence current anxieties. In contrast, for depressive disorders, it may focus on unresolved emotional issues and unconscious conflicts related to self-worth and loss.
It's important to note that different therapists may integrate techniques from various schools of thought, tailoring the treatment to each individual's specific needs. Additionally, the choice of therapy depends on the severity of the disorder, the preferences of the individual seeking treatment, and the professional judgment of the therapist.