PSYC 3280 ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY: Exam 3 Study Guide
Be familiar with the main diagnostic criteria for the following psychological disorders. For each, be able
to distinguish between other disorders, apply the criteria to case descriptions, and be familiar with the
various theoretical views and treatment approaches for the disorder.
Major Depressive Disorder
Dysthymic Disorder
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar II Disorder
Cyclothymia
Substance Abuse
Substance Dependence
Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa
Primary Insomnia
Primary Hypersomnia
Narcolepsy
Breathing-Related Sleep Disorder
Circadian Rhythm Disorder
Nightmare Disorder
Sleep Terror Disorder
Sleepwalking Disorder
Parasomnia Disorder NOS
In addition, familiarize yourself with the following:
Of the above disorders, which are relatively more common in terms of prevalence rates? For example,
which of the mood disorders is most common/least common; which of the eating disorders is more
common- anorexia or bulimia? Also be familiar with any notable sex differences in prevalence rates of the
above disorders.
The subtypes of Major Depressive Disorder: atypical features (what are they?), psychotic features (how
are the psychotic symptoms in MDD different than in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia?),
seasonal pattern, and postpartum onset.
What is double depression?
What are the symptoms of manic and hypomanic episodes? How do they differ?
Specific theories of depression: Lack of reinforcement (Lewinsohn), Interactional theory (Coyne),
Cognitive triad (Beck), Learned helplessness (Seligman) and attributional theories (Weiner)
How do the commonly used antidepressant medications differ from one another: tricyclics, MAOI’s,
SSRI’s? What is the most commonly used herbal remedy for depression?
What are schemas and cognitive distortions?
What are advantages and disadvantages associated with electroconvulsive therapy for depression?
Demographic patterns and other risk factors associated with increased risk of suicide.
