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Mental illness definition
- group of psychiatric disorders characterized by sever disturbances in thought, mood and/or behavior
- myriad of warning signs
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Psychiatry
- medical treatment of the psyche
- deals with mental illness
- "-iatry" means medical treatment
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Psychology
- science of the psyche
- systematic investigation of the human mind, including behavior and cognition, encompassing both normal and abnormal behavior
- "-ology" means science or theory
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Biological basis for mental illness
- anatomical differences
- heredity
- environment
- neurotransmitters
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What role do changes in neurotransmitter levels in specific brain regions play in behavioral disorders?
- dopamine
- norepinephrine
- serotonin
- acetylcholine
- GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid
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Schizophrenia
- onset is generally gradual, rarely sudden or dramatic
- some symptoms develop slowly, in an almost imperceptible fashion
- other symptoms develop more rapidly and are very easy to recognize
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Diagnostic test for mental illness
- patient and family history
- physical examination
- underlying illnesses
- metabolic and/or hormonal changes
- physical appearance and reaction
- emotional response
- speech and language abilities
- clinical estimate of intelligence
- level of judgment and insight
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Disruptive behavior possible factors include:
- inconsistent parenting and punishment disciplinary techniques
- parental alcoholism or drug abuse
- parental antisocial personality disorder
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- 3 subtypes defined in DSM-IV: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperreactive-impulsive, combined inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive
- affects males more than females
- persists into adolescence and adulthood
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Predominantly inattentive ADHD
- may be spacey and socially withdrawn
- may have few conduct or behavioral problems
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Predominantly hyperreactive-impulsive
- behaviors often affect academic performance, home-life and social relationships
- inability to remain seated during quiet time
- excessive talking
- blurting out answers without being called upon
- constantly interrupting others
- inability to take turns
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Causes of ADHD
- molecular DNA studies indicate role of genes
- possible linkage to chromosomes 16 and 18
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Behavioral therapy for ADHD
- behavioral interventions
- social skills training
- parenting skills training
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Central nervous system stimulants for ADHD (4)
- amphetamines (dextroamphetamine)
- caffeine
- analeptics (methylphenidate)
- anorexiants (diethylpropion)
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Other medications for ADHD
- selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI - atomoxetine)
- atypical antidepressants (bupropion)
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