In this video I describe some symptoms and the prevalence of several disorders in the Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders category of the DSM-5. These include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Acute Stress Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder. Please note that the symptoms … Read More
The Diathesis-Stress Model
In this video I describe the diathesis-stress model. This model suggests that development of mental illness can be explained by two main factors – a genetic predisposition (diathesis) and environment (stress). Individuals vary for both of these factors and these … Read More
On Being Sane in Insane Places – The Rosenhan Study
In this video I discuss David Rosenhan’s well-known study in which pseudo-patients went for psychiatric consultations and described a single symptom of hearing voices. I discuss how this study raised questions about recognition and diagnosis of mental illness, interpretations of … Read More
What is Normal?
In this video I begin the unit on psychopathology by asking how we can define normality and abnormality. Which traits or behaviors should be considered abnormal and indicative of a psychological disorder? What role do societal views play in the … Read More
Stress & Health Psychology Knowledge Organizer
Here’s a knowledge organizer I’ve created of the most essential terms for stress and health psychology in an introductory psychology course. These knowledge organizers are designed to help you identify the most important factual knowledge you need to have in … Read More
Overview of Positive Psychology
In this video I describe some of the concepts of positive psychology and its emphasis on thriving, growth, and well-being. I discuss optimism, upward and downward comparison, gratitude, and the adaptation level phenomenon or hedonic treadmill, as well as how … Read More
Stress, Social Support, & The Faith Factor
In this video I describe how social support can help people to manage stress. This may come in the form of tangible support, informational support, or emotional support, though not all social interactions are beneficial for managing stress. I also … Read More
Stress Management & Physical Exercise
In this video I describe three main approaches for dealing with stress: appraisal-focused coping, problem-focused coping, and emotion-focused coping. Next I discuss physical exercise as a means of managing stress, in addition to the many physical and cognitive benefits that … Read More
Coping, Resilience, & Post-Traumatic Growth
In this video I describe traits and techniques associated with coping with stressors. Susanne Kobasa identified commitment, challenge, and control as important factors in understanding hardiness and people who were able to thrive in stressful circumstances. Resilience in the face … Read More