Neurodevelopmental and Schizophrenic Spectrum Disorders
William Hill
8 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers neurodevelopmental and psychotic disorders. Key neurodevelopmental disorders discussed include Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disability. The guide then examines Schizophrenia, including its subtypes (acute/chronic), positive and negative symptoms, and associated brain abnormalities. Finally, it touches on Neurocognitive Disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Practice questions and exam tips are also provided.
AP Psychology Study Guide: Neurodevelopmental & Psychotic Disorders
Hey there, future AP Psych master! 👋 Let's get you prepped for the exam with a super-focused review of neurodevelopmental and psychotic disorders. We'll break down the key concepts, connect the dots, and make sure you're feeling confident and ready to ace this section. Let's dive in!
Neurodevelopmental Disorders
These disorders stem from unusual brain development or damage. They often show up early in life and affect how people learn, communicate, and interact. Remember, these are not just 'quirks'—they're significant differences in brain function. Let's explore the most important ones for the AP exam:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
ASD is characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Think of it as a spectrum, meaning the severity and presentation vary widely from person to person. People with ASD may:
- Have difficulty interpreting social cues 🎭
- Prefer routine and predictability 📅
- Exhibit atypical speech patterns and interests 🗣️
- Show repetitive behaviors or movements 🔄
Remember, ASD is a spectrum. No two individuals with ASD are exactly alike, and their strengths and challenges can vary significantly.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD involves challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It's not just about being 'hyper'; it's a neurodevelopmental difference that affects executive functions. Key symptoms include:
- Inattention: Difficulty focusing, easily distracted 😵💫
- Hyperactivity: Excessive fidgeting, restlessness 🏃
- Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting 🗣️
ADHD is highly heritable and can be managed with medication and behavioral therapies.
Don't assume ADHD is just about kids being 'naughty.' It's a genuine neurological condition with significant impacts on daily life.
Image Courtesy of Verywell Mind
Intellectual Disability
Characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. People with intellectual disabilities may:
- Have difficulty learning and problem-solving 🤔
- Struggle with communication and social skills 🗣️
- Lack practical skills needed for daily living 🏠
Remember conceptual, social, and practical skills as the three key areas impacted by intellectual disabilities. Think of it as CSP (Conceptual, Social, Practical).
Neurocognitive Disorder
These disorders involve a decline in cognitive function due to a somatogenic cause (i.e., a physical or biological factor). Examples include:
- Brain trauma 🤕
- Cardiovascular disorders ❤️
- Breathing conditions 🫁
Alzheimer's Disease
The most common neurocognitive disorder, characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. Key symptoms include:
- Short-term memory loss 🧠
- Difficulty with language and communication 🗣️
- Problems with spatial orientation and navigation 🧭
- Changes in mood and behavior 🎭
Focus on the progressive nature of Alzheimer's. It's not just about forgetting things; it's a gradual deterioration of cognitive abilities.
Psychotic and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
These disorders involve a loss of contact with reality, often characterized by psychosis. Let's break down the key features of schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder that impacts an individual’s perception of reality. During a psychotic episode, people may experience delusions and hallucinations. It’s a disorder of the brain, not a character flaw.
Think of schizophrenia as a 'break' from reality. The term 'psychotic' means a loss of contact with reality and false sensations.
Subtypes of Schizophrenia
Acute Schizophrenia
Develops rapidly after a period of stress. Often characterized by positive symptoms, which are added to a person's personality. These include:
- Delusions: False beliefs, which can be grandiose, persecutory, or somatic. 🤯
- Hallucinations: False sensory experiences, often auditory (hearing voices). 👂
Acute schizophrenia is more responsive to treatment, and recovery is more likely.
Chronic Schizophrenia
Develops slowly over time and is characterized by negative symptoms, which remove from a person's personality. These include:
- Flat affect: Reduced emotional expression. 😐
- Alogia: Reduced speech output. 🗣️
- Avolition: Lack of motivation or goal-directed behavior. 🦥
- Catatonia: Periods of immobility or agitation. 🧍
Don't mix up positive and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms add to a person's experience, while negative symptoms take away.
Image Courtesy of Verywell Mind
Brain Abnormalities in Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a biological disorder with several brain abnormalities:
- Dopamine Imbalance: High dopamine levels or too many receptors can intensify symptoms. 🧠
- Frontal Lobe Activity: Some people with schizophrenia show low brain activity in the frontal lobes. 🧠
- Amygdala and Thalamus: Increased activity in these areas. 🧠
- Enlarged Ventricles: Fluid-filled spaces in the brain's temporal lobes are often enlarged. 🧠
Image Courtesy of ResearchGate
Schizophrenia is highly genetic, and environmental factors during fetal development can increase risk.
Remember that stress can trigger gene expression that leads to schizophrenia. It's a combination of nature and nurture.
Final Exam Focus
Okay, let's zoom in on the highest-priority topics and common question types for the exam:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Understand the key differences between ASD, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. Focus on diagnostic criteria and the impact on daily life. 📝
- Schizophrenia: Master the subtypes (acute vs. chronic) and the difference between positive and negative symptoms. Know the brain abnormalities associated with the disorder. 🧠
- Neurocognitive Disorders: Be familiar with Alzheimer's disease and its progressive nature. 👴
Last-Minute Tips
- Time Management: Don't get bogged down on one question. Move on and come back if needed. ⏰
- Common Pitfalls: Avoid making assumptions about disorders. Stick to the diagnostic criteria. ⚠️
- FRQ Strategies: Always provide specific examples and connect them to the concepts. ✍️
Practice Question
Practice Questions
Let's test your knowledge with some practice questions:
Multiple Choice Questions
-
Which of the following is a positive symptom of schizophrenia? (A) Flat affect (B) Hallucinations (C) Avolition (D) Alogia (E) Catatonia
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A child who has difficulty focusing, is easily distracted, and often acts impulsively may be diagnosed with: (A) Autism Spectrum Disorder (B) Alzheimer's Disease (C) Intellectual Disability (D) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (E) Schizophrenia
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Which of the following brain abnormalities is associated with schizophrenia? (A) Decreased dopamine levels (B) Increased activity in the frontal lobes (C) Enlarged ventricles (D) Decreased activity in the amygdala (E) Shrinkage of the thalamus
Free Response Question
A 16-year-old named Alex is exhibiting symptoms of social withdrawal, difficulty communicating, and repetitive behaviors. Alex's parents are concerned and seek a psychological evaluation. Based on the information provided, answer the following questions:
(a) Identify the most likely neurodevelopmental disorder that Alex may be experiencing. (1 point)
(b) Describe two specific behavioral characteristics that are associated with this disorder. (2 points)
(c) Explain one potential biological factor that may contribute to the development of this disorder. (2 points)
(d) Discuss one way that this disorder may impact Alex's daily life. (2 points)
Answer Key:
Multiple Choice:
- (B) Hallucinations
- (D) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- (C) Enlarged ventricles
Free Response Question:
(a) The most likely neurodevelopmental disorder is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). (1 point)
(b) Two specific behavioral characteristics associated with ASD are: * Difficulty interpreting social cues or engaging in social interactions. (1 point) * Repetitive behaviors or movements, such as hand-flapping or rocking. (1 point)
(c) One potential biological factor is genetic predisposition or brain abnormalities such as differences in neural connectivity. (2 points)
(d) One way this disorder may impact Alex's daily life is by making it difficult to form relationships, succeed in school, or adapt to changes in routine. (2 points)
You've got this! Remember to stay calm, take deep breaths, and trust in your preparation. You're going to do great! 👍
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