Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 16: Problem 3

What is the diathesis-stress hypothesis? How does it explain the development of schizophrenia?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The diathesis-stress hypothesis suggests that mental disorders like schizophrenia are a result of a biological or genetic vulnerability (diathesis) that, when combined with stressful life events or situations (stress), leads to the development of the disorder. In other words, both a predisposition and a triggering event are necessary for the onset of schizophrenia.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Diathesis-Stress Hypothesis

The diathesis-stress hypothesis is a psychological theory which tries to explain why we develop mental disorders. The word 'diathesis' refers to a physical or biological vulnerability or predisposition to a condition. 'Stress' refers to life stressors or significant life events that might trigger the condition in someone with the inherent vulnerability.
02

Linking the Hypothesis to Schizophrenia

Applying this hypothesis to schizophrenia, the diathesis or predisposition could be a biological vulnerability such as genetics or abnormalities in the brain. The stressor could be a traumatic event, high levels of stress, or even substance abuse. For an individual with the biological predisposition (diathesis), experiencing these high levels of stress could trigger the onset of schizophrenia.
03

Elaborating on the Development of Schizophrenia

Not everyone with a biological predisposition develops schizophrenia; it typically only develops once triggered by significant life stressors. Thus, an individual might carry a genetic vulnerability for schizophrenia, but unless they encounter certain environmental stressors, they may not develop the condition. This interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors is at the crux of the diathesis-stress hypothesis for the development of schizophrenia.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recall Information What is anxiety? When is it normal? Abnormal?

What is the difference between a conversion disorder and hypochondriasis?

Define schizophrenia and list five symptoms of the disorder.

Think Critically How would you differentiate between someone who is simply a perfectionist and someone who is suffering from obsessivecompulsive disorder?

Application Activity Interview a doctor or nurse who deals with war veterans (such as at your local vets center). Ask the professional to list the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Summarize your findings.
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

Biopsychology

Read Explanation

Issues and Debates in Psychology

Read Explanation

Aggression

Read Explanation

Famous Psychologists

Read Explanation

Health Psychology

Read Explanation

Sensation and Perception

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free