PART A

Assignment 1
1. Explain the types of schizophrenia. Discus the causal factors of
schizophrenia

Ans- Types of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects how a person thinks,

feels, and behaves. The condition is generally categorized into several
subtypes based on symptom presentation:

1. Paranoid Schizophrenia: Characterized by intense paranoia, where

individuals have strong delusions (false beliefs) and auditory
hallucinations. They might feel persecuted or believe others are plotting
against them.
2. Disorganized Schizophrenia: Involves disorganized speech, behavior,
and inappropriate emotional responses. These individuals often struggle
with daily tasks, leading to chaotic or confused behavior.
3. Catatonic Schizophrenia: This type involves extreme motor
disturbances, from excessive movement to complete immobility
(catatonia). Individuals may also exhibit repetitive movements or
maintain strange body postures for long periods.
4. Undifferentiated Schizophrenia: When symptoms don’t fit neatly into
the above categories, individuals are classified under this subtype. They
may show a mix of different symptoms without a clear dominant one.
5. Residual Schizophrenia: In this type, active symptoms like
hallucinations or delusions have lessened, but the person may still
experience some mild symptoms, including social withdrawal or
emotional flatness.

Causal Factors of Schizophrenia

The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but it’s believed to result from
a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors:
1. Genetic Factors: Schizophrenia runs in families, indicating a genetic
predisposition. If someone has a close relative (e.g., parent or sibling)
with the disorder, their risk increases.
2. Environmental Factors: Factors like prenatal exposure to infections,
malnutrition, or stress can increase the risk. Additionally, drug use
(e.g., cannabis, methamphetamine) during adolescence may trigger the
onset of schizophrenia.
3. Neurochemical Imbalances: Abnormalities in neurotransmitters,
especially dopamine and glutamate, are strongly linked to
schizophrenia. Dopamine overactivity is a key theory in explaining
psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations.
4. Brain Structure Abnormalities: Some individuals with schizophrenia
have structural abnormalities in their brains, such as enlarged ventricles
or reduced grey matter.

2. Elucidate the role of Sympathetic Adrenomedullary System and

Hypothalamo-Pituitary Adrenocortical Axis in stress related responses.
Explain the clinical features of posttraumatic stress disorder

Ans- Stress Response Systems

The body responds to stress through two key systems:

1. Sympathetic Adrenomedullary System (SAM): This system activates

the "fight or flight" response. The hypothalamus triggers the adrenal
medulla to release adrenaline and noradrenaline, leading to increased
heart rate, blood pressure, and energy mobilization to deal with the
stressor.
2. Hypothalamo-Pituitary Adrenocortical (HPA) Axis: The HPA axis
manages prolonged stress responses. The hypothalamus releases
corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary
to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then prompts
the adrenal cortex to release cortisol, which helps maintain energy and
suppresses non-essential functions like digestion during stress.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a psychological disorder that develops following exposure to
traumatic events. The clinical features include:

 Re-experiencing: Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares about

the traumatic event.
 Avoidance: Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind the
individual of the trauma.
 Negative Alterations in Mood and Cognition: Persistent negative
emotions, feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others.
 Hyperarousal: Increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, exaggerated
startle response, and hypervigilance.

Both the SAM system and HPA axis play crucial roles in the heightened
stress response seen in PTSD.

Assignment 2
3. Childhood Depression

Ans- Childhood Depression

Childhood depression is a mood disorder where a child experiences persistent sadness,
hopelessness, and disinterest in activities. Symptoms include irritability, changes in sleep or
appetite, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. It can impact school performance, social
relationships, and emotional well-being. Causes range from genetic factors to environmental
stressors like family conflict or trauma.

4. Difference between oppositional defiant disorder and conduct

disorder

Ans- Difference Between Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct

Disorder (CD)

ODD involves defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior towards authority figures, without
violating others' rights. CD, however, includes more severe behaviors like aggression, lying,
theft, and violating social norms, often leading to legal issues.
5. Histrionic Personality Disorder

Ans- istrionic Personality Disorder

Histrionic Personality Disorder is characterized by excessive emotionality and a need for
attention. Individuals often display dramatic, flirtatious, or provocative behavior to gain
approval. They may have rapidly shifting emotions and believe relationships are more intimate
than they are.

6. Gambling Disorder

Ans- ambling Disorder

Gambling Disorder involves compulsive gambling behavior despite negative consequences.
Individuals are unable to control their gambling habits, which can lead to financial issues,
damaged relationships, and emotional distress. They may also feel restless or irritable when
trying to cut down on gambling.

7. Sexual Dysfucntions

Ans- Sexual Dysfunctions

Sexual dysfunctions are issues that prevent individuals from experiencing satisfaction during
sexual activity. These include disorders like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low
sexual desire, and female orgasmic disorder. Causes can be psychological, physical, or both.

8. Characterestics of people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Ans- Characteristics of People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Individuals with GAD experience chronic, excessive worry about various aspects of life, even
without specific reasons. They often feel restless, fatigued, and have difficulty concentrating.
Physical symptoms like muscle tension, sleep problems, and irritability are common.

PART- B
1-Select a newspaper or magazine article, YouTube video, documentary or a
film that is meaningful, and interesting to you and is related to a
psychological disorder. The newspaper or magazine article, YouTube video,
documentary or a film will be the media source. Read and review your
media source and describe your media source. What it is about? What is
interesting or meaningful about it? Why did you choose this particular
media source? Quote the essential characteristics with proper citations.
Explain the perspective taken in the article, documentary, film or video (e.g.,
biomedical, psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, humanistic,
sociocultural). Mention the details or web address of your source.

Ans- Activity 1: Review of Media Source Related to a Psychological Disorder

For this assignment, I have selected a YouTube documentary titled "Living with
Schizophrenia". This documentary provides a profound insight into the lives of individuals
affected by schizophrenia, focusing on their experiences, daily struggles, and how they manage
to cope with this chronic mental disorder. It highlights not only the clinical aspects of
schizophrenia but also the personal stories of those diagnosed with the condition, offering a
window into their world.

The documentary begins by introducing schizophrenia as a severe and often misunderstood

mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. It
explores the symptoms through personal accounts, giving the audience an authentic sense of
what it feels like to live with this condition. One particularly meaningful aspect of the
documentary is its focus on destigmatizing schizophrenia, portraying those affected not as
patients defined by their disorder but as individuals with hopes, aspirations, and a drive to live
fulfilling lives despite their challenges.

I chose this media source because schizophrenia is a complex and highly stigmatized
condition. The documentary does an exceptional job of not only presenting the medical facts but
also delving into the emotional and social challenges faced by people with schizophrenia. It
stood out to me because of its humanistic approach, offering a deeper understanding of how
individuals live with the disorder, while also addressing the importance of family support and
medical intervention in managing the symptoms.

Perspective Taken in the Documentary

The perspective taken in the documentary aligns with both the biomedical and cognitive-
behavioral models. The biomedical perspective is evident in the discussion of the biological
factors that contribute to schizophrenia, such as neurochemical imbalances (particularly
dopamine) and genetic predispositions. The documentary discusses the importance of
antipsychotic medications in stabilizing dopamine levels to help manage symptoms like
hallucinations and delusions.

In addition to the biomedical approach, the documentary also incorporates a cognitive-

behavioral perspective, particularly when discussing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Several individuals shared how CBT helped them identify and challenge their delusional
thoughts, improving their coping mechanisms. This perspective emphasizes the idea that while
medication is essential for managing the biological aspects of schizophrenia, therapy is equally
important in helping individuals lead more structured and functional lives.

Finally, the documentary touches on elements of the humanistic perspective, particularly in its
portrayal of the importance of personal relationships, community support, and the emotional
aspects of living with schizophrenia. By focusing on these humanistic elements, the documentary
reinforces that recovery is not only about managing symptoms but also about maintaining a
meaningful quality of life.

Media Source Details:

Title: Living with Schizophrenia
Source: YouTube

2-Identify the common signs of distress in school-going children. Suggest

strategies to reduce stress and promote student well-being.

Ans- Activity 2: Common Signs of Distress in School-going Children and

Strategies for Promoting Well-being

School-going children often face numerous stressors, ranging from academic pressures to social
challenges. When these stressors become overwhelming, children may exhibit signs of distress
that, if left unaddressed, can impact their mental health and overall well-being. Some of the
common signs of distress in children include:

 Changes in Behavior: Children may become more irritable, withdrawn, or defiant. They
may also show signs of aggression or hyperactivity, which can be a response to stress.
 Academic Decline: A noticeable drop in academic performance, such as lower grades or
disinterest in school activities, is often a clear sign of distress. Children may also have
difficulty concentrating or completing assignments.
 Physical Complaints: Stress can manifest physically, with children often complaining of
headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue without any clear medical cause.
 Social Withdrawal: A child who is stressed may avoid socializing with friends, become
isolated, or lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed.
 Sleep Disturbances: Stress often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to insomnia,
nightmares, or difficulty staying asleep.
 Emotional Instability: Children experiencing distress may have frequent mood swings,
feelings of sadness, or anxiety, and in severe cases, they may exhibit signs of
depression.

Strategies to Reduce Stress and Promote Well-being

To help children manage stress and improve their well-being, several strategies can be
implemented in both school and home environments:

1. Fostering Open Communication: Creating an environment where children feel safe to

express their emotions is crucial. Parents and teachers should encourage open dialogue
about any concerns or feelings of stress that children may be experiencing.
2. Time Management and Academic Support: Helping children develop time
management skills can alleviate academic pressures. Schools can also offer additional
support, such as tutoring or counseling, for students who are struggling academically.
3. Encouraging Physical Activity: Exercise is a proven way to reduce stress. Schools and
parents should encourage participation in sports or other physical activities, which can
improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep.
4. Implementing Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Schools can introduce
mindfulness programs that teach children techniques such as deep breathing,
progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation. These practices help children manage
stress and regulate their emotions.
5. Promoting Positive Peer Relationships: Positive social interactions are important for
emotional well-being. Schools should foster a supportive environment where children can
form healthy friendships and feel connected to their peers.
6. Access to Counseling Services: Schools should ensure that mental health resources are
available and accessible to students. Counselors can help children develop coping
strategies and offer professional support for those experiencing significant stress or
emotional issues.
7. Parental Involvement: Active involvement from parents in their child’s education and
personal life can reduce stress. Parents should engage in regular conversations, be aware
of any changes in behavior, and work closely with teachers to ensure their child’s
emotional needs are being met.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs of distress in school-going children and implementing

proactive strategies can help mitigate the effects of stress and promote mental well-being. By
addressing these issues early on, we can create a supportive environment where children feel
safe, valued, and emotionally secure.