What This Document Is
These are notes compiled for the first exam in Florida State University’s Abnormal Psychology course (CLP 4143). The notes cover foundational concepts related to defining abnormality, theories attempting to explain its origins, and biological factors potentially involved in mental disorders. It’s a student-created resource intended to aid in exam preparation.
Why This Document Matters
This study guide is valuable for students enrolled in CLP 4143 who are preparing for their first exam. It consolidates key definitions, models, and biological concepts likely to be assessed. It’s most useful during the review phase of studying, helping to identify core topics and potential areas for further focus. This resource exists to streamline studying by providing a concentrated overview of the material.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document is a *preview* of notes, and therefore does not represent a comprehensive course syllabus or textbook. It reflects one student’s interpretation and organization of the material. It should not be used as a substitute for attending lectures, completing assigned readings, or engaging with the professor and teaching assistants. It does not include practice questions or detailed explanations of complex research studies.
What This Document Provides
The notes include: a definition of abnormal psychology and the Rosenhan study; an explanation of the continuum model of abnormality and the “four D’s” (deviance, distress, dysfunction, dangerousness); a discussion of how social norms influence perceptions of abnormality; an overview of the diathesis-stress model and the biopsychosocial model; a look at structural factors in the brain (frontal lobe); an introduction to genes, heritability, and behavioral genetics; a summary of key neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, dopamine) and hormones (HPA axis); and a brief explanation of twin studies.
This preview *does not* include detailed explanations of specific psychological disorders, in-depth coverage of genetic research methods, or a complete analysis of the HPA axis.
