abnormal psychology research topics

113 Abnormal Psychology Topics & Essay Examples

Welcome to our list of abnormal psychology topics to research! In addition to abnormal psychology essay topics, you will also find here interesting ideas to talk about, titles for a presentation, and abnormal psychology topics for research paper.

🔝 Top 10 Abnormal Psychology Topics for 2024

🏆 best abnormal psychology topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 simple & easy abnormal psychology essay topics, 👍 good essay topics on abnormal psychology, ❓ abnormal psychology research questions, 🔍 abnormal psychology research topics.

Coping Mechanisms for People with PTSD
Types and Triggers of Anxiety Disorders
Cultural Influences and Eating Disorders
Suicide Risk Factors and Preventive Strategies
Schizophrenia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
The Swings between Mania and Depression in BPD
The Impact of Personality Disorders on Interpersonal Relationships
Unraveling Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions in OCD Patients
The Interaction of Biology and Environment Substance Use Disorders
Childhood Disorders: Autism Spectrum and Developmental Challenges
The Relationship Between Religion and Abnormal Psychology But whose judgment will we use to separate the two contrasting elements of the psychology of normal and abnormal behaviors? Some religious beliefs permit the use of alcohol and it’s considered normal, yet others find […]
Historical Perspective of Abnormal Psychology The field of abnormal psychology is therefore concerened with the study of abnormal behavior. The challenge that lies in the definition and classification of abnormal psychology is the issue of culture given that our cultural […]
Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology The concept of the connection between mind and body appreciates the fact that the two components are inseparable in the understanding of abnormal psychology.
Abnormal Psychology as a Scientific Discipline That is why, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the origins of abnormal psychology, to focus on challenges in classifying and defining abnormal and normal behaviors, to concentrate on the evolution of abnormal […]
Researching of Abnormal Psychology The process of picking or pinching the skin allowed Shaylynn to become distracted from the source of anxiety and brought her relief.
Abnormal Psychology Case Study: General Anxiety Disorder Generalized Anxiety Disorder is one of the anxiety disorders caused by abnormalities in the functioning of brain chemicals such as neurotransmitters.
Abnormal Psychology and Abnormal Behavior Anxiety has been linked to the id which operates on “pleasure principle or the maximization of pleasure and minimization of competing tension” and “thought to be a source for sexual and aggressive thoughts and behaviors […]
Careers in Abnormal Psychology They research the kind of problems these people have and look for the best ways to help them. They treat people by teaching those with these disorders the acceptable behavior and its importance.
Abnormal Psychology: Nature of Fear There is a group of disorders which share obvious symptoms and features of fear and anxiety and these are known as anxiety disorders.
Abnormal Psychology and Behavioral Interventions Illnesses of the mind have been considered the battle between the good and the evil in the early 12th-14th centuries. The unfortunate insanity of people was seen as the downfall of the town.
Abnormal Psychology: NationalEatingDisorders Website Being a psychotherapist veteran of 31 years in the realm of eating disorders among teens, she has managed to produce the proper questions to be asked when contemplating if a child has a disordered eating […]
Abnormal Psychology and Humanism The supporters of humanism stress that cognitive and behavioral patterns confine human behavior and emotions to a set of stimuli and responses.
An Invariant Dimensional Liability Model of Gender Differences in Mental Disorders The validity and reliability of research depend on the methodology that a study uses in the study of a given phenomenon.
Abnormal Psychology and Therapy This is the basic role of abnormal psychology. One of the distinct features of normal psychology is the capacity to avoid generalizations.
Abnormal Psychology’s Historical Perspectives Biological psychology is a branch of psychology that tries to expose the biological aspect of behavior, i.e, the study of the brain I,n relation to the behavior.
Abnormal Psychology Essentials Therefore, the basis of this essay will be to explore the field of abnormal psychology with emphasis on the origins of abnormal psychology, how abnormal psychology has evolved into a scientific discipline, and the theoretical […]
Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology: Personality Disorder If a person had a history of ridicule and humiliation as a child, he or she may develop an excessive fear of the same in adulthood and will go through great lengths to avoid ridicule.
Abnormal Psychology: Fetishism, Transvestic Fetishism, Sadomasochism, Voyeurism, Exhibitionism, and Pedophilia The desires of individuals with this disorder are to gain sexual arousal through dressing in clothes of the opposite sex or cross-dressing.
Comparison of Normal and Abnormal Psychology In behavioral psychology, the word ‘normal’ basically means not to deviate from the standard norms, hence normal psychology entails the study of normal patterns of behavior, emotions, and mind. Also, both normal and abnormal psychology […]
Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology: Anxiety Disorders This paper has gone on to reiterate the fact that anxiety disorders are indeed a reality in life and as such, we should brace ourselves for their occurrences.
Abnormal Psychology: Legal Issues and Licensing The report focuses on the legal issues related to the licensed and unlicensed professionals in the field of abnormal psychology. Those who are in the field of abnormal psychology are mainly interested in investigating behavior […]
Abnormal Psychology: Mental Disorders Other common types of disorders are the eating disorders, which are related to weight and food. The basis of behavior and patterns of thoughts, are also related to certain disorders.
Abnormal Psychology: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder In addition, some of this research indicates that the differences in the degree of the disorder are due to the varying nature of the trauma experienced by that individual.
Individual Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology
Differences Between Normal Psychology and Abnormal Psychology
Background and Perspective of the Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology and Major Depressive Disorder
Abnormal Psychology and Sociology of the Family Psychology
Abnormal Psychology and Three Clusters of Personality Disorders
Physical Illnesses and Disorders: Abnormal Psychology and Therapy
Psychopathology: Abnormal Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Approach
Abnormal Psychology in Pop Culture
Classification and Assessment of Abnormal Psychology
Mood Disorders and Abnormal Psychology
The Origin and History of Abnormal Psychology
Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Abnormal Psychology
Subnormal, Supernormal and Paranormal in Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology: Abuse, Addiction, and Disorders
Abnormal Psychology Conditions and Treatments
Dissociative Identity Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
Legal and Ethical Issues Pertaining to Licensed and Unlicensed Professionals in Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology: Typical Signs and Symptoms
Adaptive and Maladaptive Behaviors in Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology Bipolar Disorder
Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
Classification and Assessment of Abnormal Behavior in Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology and Two Types of Behaviors
Abnormal Psychology Problem: Excessive Use of Marijuana and Alcohol
Mental Disorders: Abnormal Psychology and Therapy
Clinical Psychology vs Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology: Rumination and Depression
Unipolar and Bipolar Depression and Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology and Life: A Dimensional Approach
Mental Health and Abnormal Psychology: Unusual Patterns of Behavior, Emotion and Thought
The Link Between Abnormal Psychology, Mental Disease, and Addictions
Anxiety Disorders: Social Anxiety, Panic, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology and Culture-Bound Syndromes
Abnormal Psychology and Multistage Analysis of Abnormal Human Behavior in Complex Scenes
Abnormal Psychology Study and Law Enforcement
Basic Theories and Techniques of Abnormal Psychology
What Are the Four D’s of Abnormal Psychology?
How Do Psychologists Diagnose a Disorder?
What Are the Three Defining Elements of Abnormal Behavior?
How Do Psychologists Define Abnormality?
What Is Danger in Abnormal Psychology?
How Do Cognitive Theories Explain Abnormal Behavior?
Is Abnormal Psychology the Same as Psychopathology?
What Are the Main Causes of Abnormal Behavior?
How Do Psychologists Decide What Behavior Is Considered Abnormal and May Be a Psychological Disorder?
What Are the Indicators of Abnormality?
Is Schizophrenia an Abnormal Psychology?
What Are the Six Models of Abnormality?
How Does Abnormal Behavior Relate to Criminality?
Which Approach Is Best for Studying Abnormality?
What Causes Abnormality in Psychology?
How Does the Humanistic Approach Explain Abnormal Behaviour?
What Are the Theories of Abnormal Psychology?
How Can Psychological Tests Help Individuals With Abnormal Behavior?
What Do Psychologists Use to Assist in Diagnosing Abnormal Behavior?
Is ADHD a Mental Illness or Disorder?
What Is the Difference Between Mental Illness and Mental Disorder?
Is Anxiety a Mental Illness or Disorder?
What Are the Different Approaches to Explaining Abnormal Behavior?
Is PTSD a Mental Illness or Disorder?
What Is the Behavioural Model of Abnormality?
Who Is the Father of Abnormal Psychology?
What Is the Difference Between Normal and Abnormal Behavior?
Which Personality Disorder Is the Most Controversial?
What Is Psychodynamic Theory of Abnormality?
Advancements in Early Diagnosis of ASD
The Relationship between Drugs and Psychosis.
Comorbidity and Treatment of Anxiety and Depression
The Role of Genetics in the Etiology of Bipolar Disorder
Sociocultural Influences on Eating Disorders and Body Image
Neurobiological Basis of Borderline Personality Disorder
The Impact of Childhood Trauma on the Development of Psychiatric Disorders
Dopamine Dysregulation as a Neurobiological Mechanism Underlying Schizophrenia
Implications of Cognitive Biases for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in OCD Patients
PTSD in Military Veterans: Therapeutic Approaches and Interventions
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135 Unique Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Table of Contents

A study suggests that approximately 12.5% of people across the globe suffer from abnormal psychological disorders. As staggering as the numbers may be, very little research has been conducted on this subject. This is primarily because of the variation in culture. Subjectivity, context-dependent rules, change in society over a span of time, and difficulty in determining the clinical significance of emotions and behaviors are some other factors that contribute to it

However, it is important to conduct studies on the subject as it can significantly relieve patients from distress, reinstate functioning, and overcome impairment. Nonetheless, finding abnormal psychology essay topics that can grab the reader’s attention and help create an impactful and factual study is no walk in the park. But it is not a problem anymore. Here, we have provided a list of intriguing ideas.

What is Abnormal Psychology?

Abnormal psychology is the branch of psychology that deals with the degree of distress caused by behavior, sentiment and thought patterns. It leads to disruptions in personal life and in the proper functioning of activities. The subject also studies the impact that the disruptive and infrequent behavior of patients suffering from abnormal psychological disorders has on society. Abnormal psychology is separated into three parts:

Subnormal psychology: It deals with psychological conditions where the mental abilities are below the normal level.
Supernormal psychology: It deals with the mental condition where a person has mental capabilities that are above the normal level.
Paranormal psychology: It refers to psychological conditions that cannot be explained through science, for example, telepathy.

Apart from them, there are nine types of abnormal psychology.

Types of Abnormal Psychology

Before you choose your abnormal psychology essay topics, it is important to have a clear idea of the types of abnormal psychology. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has laid out the nine main types of abnormal psychological disorders. It includes the following:

Also, Read: How to Write Effective Psychology Assignment

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

It is mainly found in people who have been victims or witnesses to shocking, scary, and dangerous situations. Patients with anxiety disorders may suffer from nightmares and flashbacks or try to completely avoid such situations. Common examples of anxiety disorders include situations when patients feel that they are harmed, or harassed, or that they have any supernatural power or fame.

Anxiety disorder

It is a mental condition in which patients respond to specific things or situations with dread and fear. Anxiety disorder can interfere with the ability to function in day-to-day life, make the patient overreact often to certain things that trigger emotions, and make them fail to control their emotions in certain situations. Typical symptoms of anxiety disorder are pounding of the heart and sweating.

Mood disorders

They refer to a condition where a patient feels extreme happiness, sadness, anger, or irritability for several weeks, depending on the situation. It leads to a patient’s change in behavior and impacts their performance of regular duties. Depression, bipolar disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and disruptive mood deregulation disorder are common examples of mood disorders.

Personality disorders

They are not medical conditions. It refers to the distinct method of a person’s thinking, behavior, and feeling that makes him distinct from the rest. Personality disorders are often influenced by the situation in which an individual lives or experiences throughout their life. Typically, the personalities of these people stay the same almost throughout their lives. Twisted perceptions of reality, abnormal behavior, and distress are examples of personality disorders.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a disorder of the human brain where people have delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, problems with thinking, and a lack of motivation. It can affect daily functioning and disable a human being. Common symptoms of schizophrenia are disordered thinking and behavior.

Delusional disorder

It is a type of disorder where people suffering from it cannot distinguish real things from those of the imaginary. Delusional people gain an unshakeable belief that something is not true. Delusional objects or situations may not be a part of their culture or could involve things that may happen in the future. Popular examples of delusional disorders are the feeling of being followed from a distance, deceived, or loved. Misinterpretation of perceptions or experiences is also an example of delusional disorder.

Substance use disorder

This is a type of disease that impacts the brain and behavior of people. Substance use disorder makes patients incapable of controlling the use of legal or illegal drugs or medicines such as alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine. The continuation of using drugs in spite of the damage caused is a popular example of substance use disorder.

Dissociative disorder

People who suffer from dissociative disorder have mental confusion. They suffer from a separation of thoughts, memories, surroundings, actions, or identities. The patients try to move away from reality involuntarily. It causes problems in the functioning of their day-to-day lives. Unclear senses of identity, stress in relationships, the inability to cope with professional stress, or changing emotions are typical examples of dissociative disorder.

Impulse control disorder

A condition where an individual fails to resist an urge to do something is called impulse control disorder. This medical condition can affect a human’s quality of life negatively. Kleptomania and pyromania are noticeable examples of impulse control disorders.

Also read: Unique Psychology Research Topics and Ideas

List of Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics and Ideas

Are you in search of some unique ideas to write your abnormal psychology essays? If yes, then have a look at some of these matchless abnormal psychology essay topics.

Attractive Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Here are some impressive ideas for developing your abnormal psychology essays.

What do you understand by abnormal Psychology?
Disorders of Anxiety
Antisocial personality disorder
Things that make one a sociopath
Exploration of self-harm disorders
A psychotherapeutic technique for exploring antisocial behavior
The reasons for mood disorders
The main reason behind abnormal brain development
Pathological liars: Is it a mental mechanism?
The psychological facet of suicide
Reasons behind personality disorders
Symptoms of multiple personality disorder
What causes Seasonal Affective Disorders?
Reasons behind Suicide among the elderly
The main causes of self-mutilation
What is the best way out Of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder?
What is the connection between brain development and abnormal behaviors?
What are the causes of Narcissistic personality disorder?
Impacts Of Negative Parenting On the Mental Makeup of a Child

Inspiring Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Get stimulating ideas for Abnormal psychology essays here.

What is the relationship between Parapsychology and paranormal phenomena?
Fixated disorders of a patient suffering from schizophrenia
The structure of the brain of an ordinary person with cenesthopathic disorders
How do people develop Sexual Perversion?
Why is Self-mutilation a common tool for coping with situations in the case of people suffering from psychological disorders?
How to define Separation Anxiety disorders
What is the relationship between self-esteem and self-damaging behavior?
What is your idea of Psychopathology?
“Professional burnout is a specific type of professional destruction.” Share your views on the statement.
Psychopathological characteristics of anorexia nervosa
The reasons behind persistent hallucinations
Latest treatment procedures for anorexia nervosa
The features Of a typical human being suffering from schizophrenia
Teenage Suicide is a type of Psychological Disorder. State your views on the statement.

Spectacular Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Are you searching for some breathtaking abnormal psychology essay topics? If yes, then take a look at these ideas:

How can music relieve mental health disorders?
What are the different methods of diagnosing schizophrenia?
Psychological characteristics of teenagers suffering from neurogenic anorexia
What are the causes of sleepwalking disorder in young adults?
How would you define the Oedipus and Electra complexes?
The symptoms of advanced Schizophrenia
Describe the method through which Psychological Issues can bring about suicide.
Self-mutilation is a common relief from mental stress for many young adults. What are the ways to reduce them?
What is the connection between loneliness and mental disorders?
Are sexual perversions curable?
The crux of gender identity issues in modern psychoanalysis
What are the different methods of teaching abnormal psychology?

Interesting Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Here are some fascinating abnormal psychology essay topics:

Impact of childhood trauma on the growth of borderline personality disorder
Cultural dissimilarity in the knowledge and expression of depression
Genetic and environmental issues contribute to the growth of schizophrenia.
The effect of technology on social anxiety disorder
The efficiency of cognitive-behavioral therapy for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
Substance abuse and its connection with mood disorders
How do parenting styles affect the growth of conduct disorder?
Role of psychology in controlling chronic pain in people with somatic symptom disorder
How would you describe the development of post-traumatic stress disorder?
Why a patient with schizophrenia has a higher chance of committing suicide
Shed light on the mental disorders of Vincent Van Gogh.
Examining the reasons behind alternative realities

Excellent Psychology Essay Topics for Graduates

Here are some remarkable ideas for graduates who want to develop their papers on abnormal psychology essay topics:

The effect of childhood education on future academic success
Impacts of mindfulness and meditation on lowering indications of anxiety and depression
The connection between sleep patterns and cognitive performance
How effective is play therapy in treating children with behavioral disorders?
Shed light on the impacts of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents.
Factors impacting the spirit and enthusiasm of individuals with a history of trauma
Examine the placebo effect in psychological treatments.
The function of personality traits in forecasting job satisfaction and performance
Shed light on Post-traumatic stress disorders.
Dangers of Borderline Personality Disorder
Are bipolar disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder the same?
Supporting pharmacotherapy for bipolar affective disorder

Also read: Original Research Proposal Topics and Ideas

Outstanding Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Find here some terrific abnormal psychology essay topics:

The impacts of early childhood experiences on social development in later life
How parenting styles influence adolescent risk-taking behaviors
The role of nature and nurture in personality development
The effect of bilingualism on cognitive development in children
The impact of attachment styles on romantic relationships in adulthood
What is the consequence of the use of technology on language and cognitive development in children?
Explore the connection between early childhood nutrition and cognitive development.
Find the long-term effects of gender identity development on the mental health of adolescents.
Why is Autism Spectrum disorder so common among people of today’s generation?
Possible solutions to death anxiety
Psychological profile of a distinctive child abuser
Cognitive disorders in endogenous psychoses

Abnormal Psychology Research Topics on Cognitive Disabilities

If you want to develop your Abnormal Psychology Research papers on the impacts of abnormal psychology on cognitive abilities, these topics can offer excellent help.

The effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning and decision-making
What role does attention control play in emotion regulation?
Examine the effects of aging on memory and cognitive processing.
Why are cognitive mechanisms fundamental to creativity and problem-solving?
What do you understand by cognitive biases in decision-making? What are their impacts on behavior?
The connection between language and thought
The neural center of consciousness and awareness
The impacts of mindfulness training on cognitive and emotional well-being
How eating disorders are connected to psychological issues
What leads to difficulty in learning among some students?
Why is dealing with past trauma more difficult than the trauma itself?
Therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder must be made compulsory. What are your views on the statement?

Latest Abnormal Psychology Essay Ideas

The following are some informative essay topic ideas on abnormal psychology.

Write about Abnormal Psychology in Mainstream Society.
Prepare an essay on abnormal psychology and law enforcement.
Explain the three elements that define abnormal psychology.
What Leads to Abnormality in Psychology?
What is the Concept of Psychodynamic Theory of Abnormality?
Discuss the Signs of Abnormality.
Multistage Analysis of Abnormal Human Behavior in Complex Scenes
Classify and Evaluate Abnormal Behavior
What Are the Six Abnormality Models?
What Are the Approaches to the Study of Abnormal Behavior?

The Bottom Line

Psychology is still a subject that has a taboo associated with it. Therefore, disorders and physical and mental issues related to abnormal psychology are rarely discussed in essays. However, it is essential to discuss them to make people aware of the problems and approach a consultant if they identify themselves or their near and dear ones with the symptoms. It will also help these identified patients become aware of the accurate treatment procedures and overcome their condition easily.

The discussion above enlists abnormal psychology essay topics. Choose the one that you like best and develop a high-quality paper on it. Nonetheless, if you need help with abnormal psychology essay papers, connect with our essay helpers immediately. They will help you through all the stages of essay writing. Most importantly by taking our assignment help services online, you can also submit a premium-quality abnormal psychology essay in due time and secure good grades.

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Home » 500+ Psychology Research Topic Ideas

500+ Psychology Research Topic Ideas

Table of Contents

Psychology is a vast field that encompasses a wide range of topics and research areas. From the study of cognition and behavior to the exploration of mental health disorders, there are countless avenues for researchers to explore within this field. Whether you are a college student, graduate student, or professional in the field of psychology, selecting a research topic can be a daunting task. To help guide your research endeavors, we have compiled a list of 500+ unique psychology research topic ideas across various subfields of psychology. These research topics range from the study of abnormal psychology and cognitive psychology to military psychology and education. With this extensive list, we hope to provide you with inspiration and ideas to jumpstart your research journey.

Psychology Research Topic Ideas

Psychology Research Topic Ideas are as follows:

The effects of social media on self-esteem in adolescents
The role of parenting styles in shaping children’s personality development
The impact of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction in adults
The influence of music on mood and emotional regulation
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning
The relationship between personality traits and job satisfaction
The effects of physical exercise on mental health
The role of culture in shaping social identity and behavior
The impact of peer pressure on decision-making in adolescents
The effects of childhood trauma on adult attachment styles
The influence of personality on romantic relationships
The effects of bullying on mental health in children and adolescents
The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders
The impact of positive psychology interventions on well-being
The effects of social support on coping with stress
The relationship between emotional intelligence and academic achievement
The effects of technology use on cognitive functioning
The influence of gender roles on social behavior
The effects of pet ownership on mental health
The role of attachment styles in parent-child relationships
The impact of social comparison on body dissatisfaction in women
The effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on chronic pain management
The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior
The effects of stereotype threat on academic performance
The influence of self-esteem on romantic relationships
The effects of environmental factors on cognitive development in children
The role of resilience in coping with trauma
The effects of gaming on cognitive functioning and addiction
The impact of mindfulness interventions on workplace productivity
The relationship between social support and physical health.
The relationship between self-compassion and mental health
The impact of cognitive biases on decision-making
The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships
The effects of social isolation on mental health
The influence of cultural values on parenting practices
The relationship between social media use and body image dissatisfaction
The effects of childhood obesity on mental health and well-being
The impact of mindfulness-based interventions on addiction recovery
The role of personality in predicting job performance and success
The effects of sleep quality on academic achievement
The influence of social identity on intergroup conflict
The effects of nature exposure on stress reduction
The impact of meditation on empathy and compassion
The role of emotion regulation in coping with chronic illness
The effects of gratitude interventions on well-being and life satisfaction
The relationship between personality traits and leadership effectiveness
The impact of trauma on brain development in children
The role of social norms in shaping behavior
The effects of mindfulness interventions on eating disorders
The influence of cultural factors on mental health stigma
The effects of emotional intelligence on workplace relationships and team effectiveness
The relationship between self-esteem and academic achievement
The impact of exercise on cognitive aging and dementia prevention
The role of empathy in moral decision-making
The effects of social comparison on academic motivation
The influence of cultural factors on the perception of mental illness
The effects of childhood bullying on long-term mental health outcomes
The role of personality in romantic partner selection and satisfaction
The impact of parental divorce on children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes
The relationship between personality traits and coping strategies in stressful situations.
The impact of personality disorders on interpersonal relationships
The effects of mindfulness interventions on workplace stress and burnout
The role of emotional intelligence in romantic relationships
The effects of cultural factors on the development of eating disorders
The relationship between attachment styles and emotional regulation
The impact of early childhood education on cognitive development
The effects of exposure to violence on mental health outcomes
The role of motivation in academic achievement and success
The influence of culture on the perception of intelligence and academic achievement
The effects of technology use on social skills and communication
The relationship between self-esteem and social anxiety
The impact of trauma on memory processing and recall
The role of parental involvement in academic achievement
The effects of exercise on mental health outcomes in older adults
The influence of cultural factors on romantic attraction and mate selection
The effects of mindfulness interventions on depression and anxiety
The relationship between personality traits and substance abuse
The impact of environmental factors on child development
The role of motivation in workplace productivity and job satisfaction
The effects of social media use on sleep quality and quantity
The influence of cultural factors on the perception and treatment of addiction
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety disorder
The relationship between personality traits and risk-taking behavior
The impact of prenatal stress on child development and behavior
The role of emotional intelligence in leadership effectiveness
The effects of meditation on attention and focus
The influence of cultural factors on mental health treatment-seeking behavior
The effects of traumatic events on personal growth and resilience
The relationship between personality traits and creativity
The impact of mindfulness interventions on emotion dysregulation in children and adolescents.
The effects of social comparison on body dissatisfaction
The impact of parental stress on child behavior and development
The role of mindfulness in stress management during pregnancy
The effects of cultural factors on the development of social anxiety disorder
The relationship between personality traits and procrastination
The impact of trauma on addiction and substance abuse
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health treatment
The effects of exercise on self-esteem and body image
The influence of personality traits on the development of eating disorders
The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health outcomes
The impact of meditation on academic performance and focus
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards body image and appearance
The effects of mindfulness interventions on chronic pain management
The relationship between personality traits and moral decision-making
The impact of early childhood attachment on romantic relationships
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards sexuality and sexual behavior
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in older adults
The influence of personality traits on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The relationship between childhood bullying and adult mental health outcomes
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on panic disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards substance use and addiction
The effects of mindfulness interventions on insomnia and sleep quality
The relationship between personality traits and social comparison behavior
The impact of parental divorce on romantic relationship outcomes
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards aging and age-related changes
The effects of social support on stress management in college students
The influence of personality traits on the development of anxiety disorders
The relationship between childhood trauma and romantic relationship outcomes
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards masculinity and femininity
The effects of mindfulness interventions on work-related stress
The relationship between personality traits and forgiveness
The impact of peer pressure on adolescent substance abuse
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health stigma
The effects of social support on stress management in healthcare workers
The influence of personality traits on the development of depression
The relationship between childhood trauma and substance abuse
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on depression
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards body modification and cosmetic surgery
The effects of mindfulness interventions on emotional regulation in adolescents.
The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image in adolescent girls
The impact of parental emotional neglect on adult mental health outcomes
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards gender and sexual orientation identity
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on post-traumatic stress disorder
The relationship between personality traits and attachment styles in romantic relationships
The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic illness
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards disability and ableism
The effects of mindfulness interventions on emotional eating and food addiction
The influence of personality traits on the development of borderline personality disorder
The relationship between childhood adversity and adult mental health outcomes
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on generalized anxiety disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards aging and dementia
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic pain
The relationship between personality traits and coping strategies in response to stress
The impact of maternal mental health on child behavior and development
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health in the workplace
The effects of mindfulness interventions on stress and burnout in healthcare professionals
The influence of personality traits on the development of narcissistic personality disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and sleep disorders
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on bipolar disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards diversity and inclusion
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in refugees and immigrants
The relationship between personality traits and empathy
The impact of social comparison on academic performance and motivation
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health in the military
The effects of mindfulness interventions on addiction recovery and relapse prevention
The influence of personality traits on the development of antisocial personality disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social skills and communication in autism spectrum disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health in the LGBTQ+ community
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with substance use disorder
The relationship between personality traits and creativity in the arts and sciences
The impact of early childhood exposure to violence on adult mental health outcomes
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and aging in rural communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and self-care
The influence of personality traits on the development of schizophrenia
The relationship between childhood trauma and dissociative identity disorder
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety in children and adolescents
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and spirituality
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic stress.
The impact of personality traits on job performance and satisfaction
The relationship between childhood trauma and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The effects of exposure therapy on phobias and anxiety disorders
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health in minority communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in caregivers of individuals with chronic illness or disability
The relationship between cognitive flexibility and problem-solving abilities
The impact of psychoeducation on stigma reduction towards mental illness
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and substance use in college students
The effects of mindfulness interventions on academic performance and stress in college students
The influence of personality traits on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
The relationship between childhood trauma and depression in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on depression and anxiety in cancer patients
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and body image in men
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome
The relationship between resilience and post-traumatic growth
The impact of music therapy on mental health outcomes in individuals with schizophrenia
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and motherhood
The effects of mindfulness interventions on emotional regulation and mood disorders in adolescents
The influence of personality traits on the development of hoarding disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and substance use disorder in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on insomnia and sleep disorders
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and masculinity
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic migraines
The relationship between emotional intelligence and leadership effectiveness
The impact of group therapy on social skills and communication in individuals with autism spectrum disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and aging in urban communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on compassion and empathy in healthcare professionals
The influence of personality traits on the development of postpartum depression
The relationship between childhood trauma and bipolar disorder in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on self-esteem and body image in individuals with eating disorders
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and family dynamics in immigrant families
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic gastrointestinal disorders
The relationship between personality traits and self-compassion
The impact of play therapy on social-emotional development in children with autism spectrum disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and aging in LGBTQ+ communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on anxiety and depression in individuals with chronic pain
The relationship between childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder symptoms in adolescence
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms in children and adolescents.
The effects of physical exercise on mood and anxiety in older adults
The relationship between childhood trauma and attachment styles in romantic relationships
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on body dysmorphic disorder symptoms
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and spirituality in indigenous communities
The relationship between personality traits and risky behavior in adolescence
The influence of parental bonding on the development of borderline personality disorder in young adults
The impact of mindfulness interventions on stress and burnout in healthcare professionals
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and disability in rural communities
The effects of psychotherapy on self-compassion in individuals with depression
The relationship between childhood trauma and dissociative symptoms in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety disorder in individuals with autism spectrum disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviors in Asian American communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The influence of family functioning on the development of substance use disorders in adolescents
The impact of expressive writing on emotional processing in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in survivors of domestic violence
The relationship between childhood trauma and disordered eating behaviors in young adults
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on panic disorder symptoms in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community support in refugee populations
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD)
The relationship between personality traits and romantic relationship satisfaction
The influence of childhood attachment on the development of post-traumatic stress disorder in adulthood
The impact of group therapy on social skills and self-esteem in individuals with social anxiety disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and faith-based support in African American communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on emotion regulation and coping skills in individuals with borderline personality disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and anxiety sensitivity in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on health anxiety symptoms in individuals with chronic illnesses
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and social stigma in Hispanic/Latino communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic hepatitis C
The relationship between personality traits and decision-making processes
The influence of parent-child communication on the development of eating disorders in adolescents
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on gambling disorder symptoms
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and access to care in rural communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with bipolar disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and rumination in adulthood
The impact of group therapy on self-esteem and assertiveness in individuals with avoidant personality disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Native American populations.
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance and decision-making
The relationship between personality traits and addiction susceptibility
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on hoarding disorder symptoms
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and spirituality in Hispanic/Latino communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with multiple sclerosis
The relationship between childhood trauma and emotional regulation in adulthood
The influence of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents
The impact of mindfulness interventions on impulsivity and self-control in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviors in LGBTQ+ communities
The effects of cognitive training on cognitive performance and brain structure in older adults
The relationship between personality traits and risk-taking behaviors in college students
The impact of family therapy on communication and conflict resolution in families with a history of domestic violence
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Asian American communities
The relationship between childhood trauma and interpersonal functioning in adulthood
The influence of cultural identity on mental health outcomes in immigrant populations
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on eating disorder symptoms in individuals with type 1 diabetes
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and stigma in Arab American communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
The relationship between childhood trauma and attachment styles in adulthood friendships
The impact of expressive writing on stress and immune function in caregivers of individuals with dementia
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in rural Native American communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic pain and depression
The relationship between personality traits and emotional intelligence
The influence of parental warmth and discipline on the development of anxiety disorders in children
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on postpartum depression symptoms
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and access to care in South Asian communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with borderline personality disorder
The relationship between childhood trauma and resilience in adulthood
The impact of group therapy on social anxiety and loneliness in individuals with hearing loss
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community support in Pacific Islander communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and depression
The relationship between personality traits and leadership styles
The influence of peer relationships on the development of depressive symptoms in adolescents
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on body image and self-esteem in individuals with gender dysphoria
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Middle Eastern communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and addiction
The relationship between childhood trauma and substance use disorders in adulthood
The impact of group therapy on emotion regulation and self-esteem in individuals with personality disorders
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in immigrant and refugee communities.
Sure, here are 40 more psychology research topic ideas:
The effects of meditation on creativity and divergent thinking
The relationship between personality traits and career satisfaction
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on sleep disturbances in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviors in Black communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI)
The relationship between childhood trauma and attachment styles in romantic relationships in adulthood
The influence of social norms on substance use behaviors in college students
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Indigenous communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with chronic pain
The impact of group therapy on emotion regulation and social connectedness in individuals with eating disorders
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in African immigrant communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI)
The relationship between childhood trauma and the development of eating disorders in adulthood
The influence of social identity on stereotype threat and academic performance in college students
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in individuals with Parkinson’s disease
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviors in Southeast Asian communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The relationship between personality traits and coping strategies in individuals with chronic pain
The impact of group therapy on emotion regulation and social support in individuals with borderline personality disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Muslim communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and depression
The relationship between childhood trauma and emotional intelligence in adulthood
The influence of attachment styles on romantic relationship satisfaction in adults
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety symptoms in individuals with social communication disorder (SCD)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in refugee communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with substance use disorders
The relationship between personality traits and resilience in individuals with chronic illnesses
The impact of group therapy on emotion regulation and social skills in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Caribbean communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with fibromyalgia and depression
The influence of social comparison on body dissatisfaction and eating disorder behaviors in adolescents
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on depression symptoms in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Native Hawaiian communities
The relationship between personality traits and coping strategies in individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
The impact of group therapy on social anxiety symptoms in individuals with intellectual disabilities
The role of social comparison in body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors in men
The effects of parental attachment on romantic relationships in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on anxiety symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS)
The relationship between cultural values and parenting practices in Latino families
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and anxiety
The role of social norms in shaping attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviors in South Asian communities
The influence of personality traits on academic achievement in college students
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on depression symptoms in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
The relationship between attachment styles and romantic relationship satisfaction in same-sex couples
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with schizophrenia
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Arab communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic pain and anxiety
The relationship between childhood adversity and substance use disorders in adulthood
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on anxiety symptoms in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The role of cultural beliefs about mental illness and stigma in Latino communities
The effects of social identity on stereotype threat and academic achievement in minority college students
The relationship between personality traits and coping strategies in caregivers of individuals with dementia
The impact of group therapy on depression symptoms in individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in LGBTQ+ communities
The relationship between attachment styles and romantic relationship satisfaction in individuals with chronic illnesses
The influence of personality traits on stress and coping in police officers
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on anxiety symptoms in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD)
The role of cultural beliefs about mental illness and stigma in Asian communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and depression
The relationship between childhood trauma and interpersonal relationships in adulthood
The impact of group therapy on anxiety symptoms in individuals with social phobia
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Native American communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with postpartum depression
The relationship between personality traits and burnout in healthcare professionals
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on anxiety symptoms in individuals with chronic pain and fibromyalgia
The role of cultural beliefs about mental illness and stigma in African American communities
The effects of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and anxiety
The relationship between childhood trauma and emotional regulation in adolescence
The influence of personality traits on well-being and life satisfaction in older adults
The impact of group therapy on depression symptoms in individuals with borderline personality disorder
The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and community resources in Hispanic/Latino communities
The effects of mindfulness interventions on self-compassion and emotional regulation in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The relationship between attachment styles and emotional regulation in individuals with substance use disorders

Psychology Research Topic Ideas College Students

The effects of virtual reality exposure therapy on anxiety and phobias among college students
The relationship between attachment styles and romantic relationship satisfaction among college students
The impact of social norms on substance use among college students
The effects of cultural identity on mental health and academic achievement among college students
The role of self-compassion in reducing burnout among college students
The relationship between social media use and FOMO (fear of missing out) among college students
The impact of environmental factors on mental health and well-being among college students
The effects of self-esteem on social anxiety and social skills among college students
The role of positive psychology interventions in promoting well-being and academic success among college students
The relationship between gender identity and mental health outcomes among college students
The impact of parental communication on mental health and academic performance among college students
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on PTSD symptoms among college students
The relationship between personality traits and academic procrastination among college students
The role of humor in reducing stress and promoting well-being among college students
The impact of social identity on academic motivation and achievement among college students
The effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on academic performance and mental health among college students
The relationship between academic stress and substance use among college students
The role of cultural competence in promoting diversity and inclusion on college campuses
The impact of emotional intelligence on academic success and career readiness among college students
The effects of peer mentoring programs on academic motivation and success among college students
The relationship between exercise and cognitive functioning in college students
The role of optimism in promoting resilience and well-being among college students
The impact of music therapy on anxiety and depression among college students
The effects of exposure to nature on mental health and well-being among college students
The relationship between parental involvement and emotional regulation among college students
The role of forgiveness in promoting well-being and interpersonal relationships among college students
The impact of social comparison on body image and self-esteem among college students
The effects of attachment styles on coping with stress among college students
The relationship between academic self-efficacy and academic performance among college students
The role of grit in promoting academic perseverance and achievement among college students
The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and well-being among college students
The effects of peer pressure on substance use and risky behaviors among college students
The relationship between social support and academic engagement among college students
The role of cognitive biases in promoting or hindering academic success among college students
The impact of physical activity on mental health and well-being among college students
The effects of mindfulness-based interventions on academic motivation and success among college students
The relationship between perfectionism and academic burnout among college students
The role of parental support in promoting academic resilience and success among college students with disabilities
The impact of diversity education on promoting empathy and reducing prejudice among college students
The effects of assertiveness training on communication skills and interpersonal relationships among college students.

Graduate Psychology Research Topic Ideas

The impact of mindfulness-based interventions on reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in clinical populations
The role of self-compassion in promoting emotional well-being among adults with chronic illness
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on PTSD symptoms in military veterans
The relationship between sleep quality and cognitive functioning in aging populations
The impact of positive psychology interventions on well-being and resilience among individuals with chronic pain
The role of emotion regulation in reducing symptoms of borderline personality disorder
The effects of virtual reality exposure therapy on social anxiety in individuals with autism spectrum disorder
The relationship between executive functioning and academic achievement in children with ADHD
The impact of family-based interventions on reducing symptoms of substance use disorders among adolescents
The role of mindfulness in promoting emotional regulation and stress management in healthcare professionals
The effects of cognitive remediation therapy on cognitive functioning in individuals with schizophrenia
The relationship between attachment styles and therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy
The impact of cultural factors on the manifestation and treatment of eating disorders
The role of emotion regulation in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in postpartum women
The effects of acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing symptoms of OCD
The relationship between childhood ADHD and adult executive functioning and academic achievement
The impact of animal-assisted therapy on reducing symptoms of PTSD in veterans
The role of social support in promoting resilience and well-being among individuals with chronic illness
The effects of cognitive remediation therapy on reducing negative symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia
The relationship between executive functioning and social skills in children with autism spectrum disorder
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing symptoms of hoarding disorder
The role of emotion regulation in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
The effects of mindfulness-based interventions on reducing symptoms of burnout among healthcare professionals
The relationship between social support and quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis
The impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder
The role of mindfulness in promoting well-being and emotional regulation in individuals with chronic pain
The effects of cognitive remediation therapy on reducing negative symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder
The relationship between executive functioning and academic achievement in children with learning disabilities
The impact of acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing symptoms of social anxiety disorder
The role of emotion regulation in reducing symptoms of borderline personality disorder in adolescents
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing symptoms of panic disorder
The relationship between social support and depression in individuals with HIV/AIDS
The impact of cognitive remediation therapy on reducing symptoms of ADHD in adults
The role of mindfulness in promoting well-being and emotional regulation in individuals with depression
The effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing symptoms of substance use disorders in individuals with co-occurring PTSD
The relationship between executive functioning and quality of life in individuals with traumatic brain injury
The impact of acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The role of emotion regulation in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents with chronic illness
The effects of cognitive remediation therapy on reducing cognitive impairment in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Military Psychology Research Topic Ideas

The impact of military deployment on the mental health and well-being of service members
The role of resilience in promoting posttraumatic growth among military personnel
The effects of combat exposure on emotional regulation and decision-making abilities
The relationship between military leadership styles and team cohesion
The impact of military culture on help-seeking behaviors among service members with mental health concerns
The role of perceived social support in promoting resilience among military spouses during deployment
The effects of military service on identity formation and self-concept
The relationship between deployment-related stress and marital satisfaction among military couples
The impact of military sexual trauma on mental health outcomes and treatment seeking behaviors among service members
The role of mindfulness in reducing symptoms of PTSD among military personnel
The effects of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing symptoms of PTSD among military veterans
The relationship between military deployment and substance use disorders
The impact of military deployment on parent-child relationships and child outcomes
The role of perceived organizational support in promoting job satisfaction and retention among military personnel
The effects of exposure therapy on reducing combat-related nightmares and sleep disturbances among military personnel
The relationship between military service and risk-taking behaviors
The impact of military culture on mental health stigma and treatment seeking behaviors among service members
The role of positive psychology interventions in promoting resilience and well-being among military personnel and their families
The effects of virtual reality exposure therapy on reducing symptoms of specific phobias among military personnel
The relationship between military service and traumatic brain injury
The impact of deployment on career development and job satisfaction among military personnel
The role of cognitive appraisal in the stress and coping process among military personnel
The effects of a peer support program on reducing symptoms of PTSD among military personnel
The relationship between military service and intimate partner violence perpetration and victimization
The impact of military deployment on parenting practices and child outcomes among military families
The role of perceived organizational justice in promoting job satisfaction and retention among military personnel
The effects of acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among military personnel
The relationship between military service and suicidal ideation and behavior
The impact of military deployment on social support networks and social integration
The role of perceived unit cohesion in promoting resilience and mental health among military personnel
The effects of cognitive remediation therapy on improving cognitive functioning and job performance among military personnel with traumatic brain injury
The relationship between military service and alcohol misuse and addiction
The impact of military deployment on sibling relationships and family functioning
The role of perceived leadership support in promoting job satisfaction and retention among military personnel
The effects of exposure therapy on reducing symptoms of phobic avoidance among military personnel
The relationship between military service and eating disorders
The impact of military deployment on community reintegration and social support among veterans
The role of perceived control in the stress and coping process among military personnel
The effects of a mindfulness-based intervention on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among military spouses during deployment
The relationship between military service and personality disorders.

Psychology Research Topic Ideas in Education

The effects of mindfulness practices on student well-being and academic performance
The impact of classroom diversity on student attitudes and academic achievement
The role of parent-teacher communication in promoting student success
The effects of differentiated instruction on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between school climate and student mental health outcomes
The impact of technology integration on student learning outcomes
The role of teacher-student relationships in promoting student engagement and academic success
The effects of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic performance
The relationship between academic self-concept and academic achievement
The impact of peer tutoring on student academic performance
The role of motivation in promoting student academic success
The effects of educational gaming on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between parental involvement and student academic achievement
The impact of teacher expectations on student academic performance
The role of goal-setting in promoting student academic success
The effects of growth mindset interventions on student motivation and academic achievement
The relationship between teacher burnout and student academic outcomes
The impact of teacher diversity on student attitudes and academic achievement
The role of classroom management in promoting student engagement and academic success
The effects of student-centered learning on student academic performance
The relationship between teacher empathy and student academic outcomes
The impact of school-based mental health services on student mental health outcomes and academic achievement
The role of parental involvement in homework on student academic success
The effects of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between student motivation and academic achievement in STEM fields
The impact of teacher professional development on student academic outcomes
The role of teacher feedback in promoting student academic success
The effects of cooperative learning on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between classroom climate and student academic outcomes
The impact of restorative justice practices on student behavior and academic achievement
The role of teacher support in promoting student academic success
The effects of flipped classrooms on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between teacher autonomy and student academic outcomes
The impact of teacher collaboration on student academic performance
The role of metacognition in promoting student academic success
The effects of active learning on student engagement and academic achievement
The relationship between student engagement and academic achievement in language learning
The impact of teacher coaching on student academic outcomes
The role of self-regulated learning in promoting student academic success
The effects of outdoor learning on student engagement and academic achievement.

Cognitive Psychology Research Topic Ideas

The role of attention in perception and memory
The effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning
The relationship between creativity and cognitive flexibility
The cognitive processes involved in decision-making
The impact of stress on cognitive performance
The role of working memory in problem-solving
The cognitive factors involved in language acquisition
The relationship between attention and executive functions
The effect of aging on cognitive abilities
The role of attention in visual perception
The cognitive processes involved in learning and memory
The impact of technology on cognitive development
The relationship between cognition and emotion
The effect of anxiety on cognitive performance
The cognitive processes involved in attentional control
The role of executive functions in decision-making
The effect of mindfulness practices on cognitive functioning
The relationship between language and cognition
The cognitive processes involved in reading comprehension
The impact of nutrition on cognitive development
The role of working memory in language processing
The effect of exercise on cognitive performance
The cognitive processes involved in mental rotation tasks
The relationship between cognitive load and learning
The effect of multitasking on cognitive performance
The cognitive processes involved in problem-solving
The role of executive functions in goal-directed behavior
The impact of cognitive training on cognitive abilities
The relationship between attention and perception
The effect of music on cognitive performance
The cognitive processes involved in decision-making under uncertainty
The role of cognitive control in self-regulation
The impact of bilingualism on cognitive development
The relationship between cognitive biases and decision-making
The effect of caffeine on cognitive performance
The cognitive processes involved in face recognition
The role of cognitive dissonance in attitude change
The impact of mindfulness-based interventions on cognitive functioning
The relationship between cognitive styles and problem-solving
The cognitive processes involved in mental imagery.

Forensic Psychology Research Topic Ideas

The impact of childhood trauma on criminal behavior
The effectiveness of forensic psychological evaluations in court proceedings
The role of mental illness in criminal behavior
The effect of substance abuse on criminal behavior
The impact of eyewitness testimony on legal outcomes
The role of psychopathy in criminal behavior
The effectiveness of restorative justice practices
The relationship between socioeconomic status and criminal behavior
The effect of media coverage on public perceptions of crime
The impact of prison environment on offender rehabilitation
The role of the insanity defense in criminal cases
The effectiveness of sex offender treatment programs
The relationship between domestic violence and homicide
The effect of legal representation on trial outcomes
The impact of juvenile delinquency prevention programs
The role of cultural factors in criminal behavior
The effectiveness of parole and probation programs
The relationship between mental illness and violence
The effect of polygraph testing on legal outcomes
The impact of criminal profiling on law enforcement investigations
The role of victim impact statements in sentencing
The effectiveness of correctional education programs
The relationship between childhood attachment styles and criminal behavior
The effect of cognitive biases in legal decision-making
The impact of witness identification procedures on accuracy
The role of forensic hypnosis in criminal investigations
The effectiveness of drug court programs
The relationship between alcohol use and criminal behavior
The effect of societal stereotypes on criminal sentencing
The impact of prison overcrowding on offender rehabilitation
The role of cultural competence in forensic assessments
The effectiveness of diversion programs for juvenile offenders
The relationship between trauma and criminal behavior in women
The effect of plea bargaining on legal outcomes
The impact of social support on offender rehabilitation
The role of forensic psychology in counterterrorism efforts
The effectiveness of offender reentry programs
The relationship between intellectual disability and criminal behavior
The effect of forensic testimony on jury decision-making.

Abnormal psychology research topic ideas

The effects of childhood trauma on the development of anxiety disorders
The relationship between depression and sleep disturbances
The effectiveness of psychotherapy for borderline personality disorder
The impact of social media on body image and eating disorders
The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
The effect of early intervention on the progression of psychosis
The impact of stigma on help-seeking behaviors for mental health disorders
The relationship between substance use disorders and mental health
The effect of exercise on symptoms of depression and anxiety
The impact of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy on post-traumatic stress disorder
The role of attachment styles in the development of personality disorders
The effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for schizophrenia
The relationship between childhood ADHD and the development of anxiety disorders
The effect of mindfulness meditation on symptoms of depression and anxiety
The impact of cultural factors on the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders
The role of neuroplasticity in the treatment of addiction
The effectiveness of exposure therapy for specific phobias
The effect of stress on the development of mental health disorders
The impact of sleep disturbances on the onset of bipolar disorder
The role of trauma in the development of dissociative disorders
The effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia
The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of borderline personality disorder
The effect of peer support on the recovery of individuals with mental health disorders
The impact of cultural differences on the presentation of mental health symptoms
The role of cognitive biases in the maintenance of anxiety disorders
The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for borderline personality disorder
The relationship between early life stressors and the development of depression
The effect of nutrition on mental health
The impact of virtual reality exposure therapy on phobia treatment
The role of genetics in the development of mood disorders
The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for anxiety disorders
The relationship between childhood trauma and the development of dissociative identity disorder
The effect of stigma on treatment outcomes for individuals with mental health disorders
The impact of childhood adversity on the development of personality disorders
The role of emotional regulation in the treatment of borderline personality disorder
The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy for depression
The relationship between sleep disturbances and the development of anxiety disorders
The effect of stigma on mental health professionals’ treatment decisions
The impact of cultural factors on the expression of bipolar disorder symptoms.

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How Psychologists Define and Study Abnormal Psychology

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Microgen Images/Science Photo Library / Getty Images

What Is Abnormal Psychology?

Defining abnormality.

Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that deals with psychopathology and abnormal behavior, or the patterns of emotion, thought, and behavior that can be signs of a mental health condition. The term covers a broad range of disorders, from depression to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to personality disorders.

The term "abnormal" is the subject of considerable debate. What exactly is "normal" and who gets to decide? The social norms that are often used to determine what is normal versus abnormal can shift over time, so settling on a standard definition isn't simple or straightforward.

Counselors, psychologists, and psychotherapists often work directly in this field, often in a clinical context. Rather than the distinction between normal and abnormal, psychologists in this field focus on the level of distress that behaviors, thoughts, or emotions might cause.

This article discusses what abnormal psychology is and the different topics studied by this area of psychology. It also covers how abnormality is defined and some of the criticisms of abnormal psychology.

If a behavior is creating problems in a person's life or is disruptive to other people, then this would be an "abnormal" behavior. In such cases, the behavior may require some type of mental health intervention.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness.

The following characteristics are usually included:

Abnormal behavior occurs infrequently . However, statistical infrequency alone is not a sufficient definition. Some healthy, desirable, and beneficial behaviors also occur infrequently. And other uncommon behaviors or characteristics have no bearing on how a person behaves or functions. So just because something is unusual or uncommon does not mean it should be defined as abnormal.
Abnormal behavior creates distress . These behaviors may disturb the individual, or they may be upsetting and disruptive to others.
Abnormal behavior affects a person's ability to function . People who are displaying these behaviors may struggle to function normally in their daily life, which can affect their relationships, work, school, and home life.
Abnormal behavior is socially disruptive . It may violate social norms and make it difficult for people to function in social settings and maintain social relationships.

Abnormal psychology doesn't just address behaviors that are considered statistically infrequent. Instead, it focuses on behaviors that create distress, make it difficult to function, and that may be socially disruptive.

What Are the Four Approaches to Abnormal Psychology?

There are a number of different perspectives used in abnormal psychology. While some psychologists or psychiatrists may focus on a single viewpoint, many mental health professionals use elements from multiple areas in order to better understand and treat psychological disorders.

Psychoanalytic Approach

This perspective has its roots in the theories of Sigmund Freud. The psychoanalytic approach suggests that many abnormal behaviors stem from unconscious thoughts, desires, and memories.

While these feelings are outside of awareness, they are still believed to influence conscious actions.

Therapists who take this approach believe that by analyzing their memories, behaviors, thoughts, and even dreams , people can uncover and deal with some of the feelings that have been leading to maladaptive behaviors and distress.

Behavioral Approach

This approach to abnormal psychology focuses on observable behaviors. In behavioral therapy, the focus is on reinforcing positive behaviors and not reinforcing maladaptive behaviors.

The behavioral approach targets only the behavior itself, not the underlying causes. When dealing with abnormal behavior, a behavioral therapist might utilize strategies such as classical conditioning and operant conditioning to help eliminate unwanted behaviors and teach new behaviors.

Medical Approach

This approach to abnormal psychology focuses on the biological causes of mental illness, emphasizing understanding the underlying cause of disorders, which might include genetic inheritance, related physical illnesses, infections, and chemical imbalances. Medical treatments are often pharmacological in nature, although medication is often used in conjunction with some type of psychotherapy.

Cognitive Approach

The cognitive approach to abnormal psychology focuses on how internal thoughts, perceptions, and reasoning contribute to psychological disorders. Cognitive treatments typically focus on helping the individual change their thoughts or reactions.

Cognitive therapy might also be used in conjunction with behavioral methods in a technique known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Psychologists often look at abnormal behaviors through a number of different perspectives including the psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, and medical approaches. Such perspectives can influence how a condition is treated, but therapists also often draw on techniques from multiple approaches.

Topics in Abnormal Psychology

The main topics in abnormal psychology are the study, understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of psychological disorders. Psychological disorders are defined as patterns of behavioral or psychological symptoms that impact multiple areas of life. These conditions create distress for the person experiencing symptoms.

Mental health professionals use the " Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ," published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), for a variety of purposes. The manual contains a listing of psychiatric disorders, diagnostic codes, information on the prevalence of each disorder, and diagnostic criteria. Some of the categories of psychological disorders include:

Anxiety disorders , such as social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder
Mood disorders , such as depression and bipolar disorder
Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as intellectual disability or autism spectrum disorder
Neurocognitive disorders including delirium
Personality disorders , such as borderline personality disorder, avoidant personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder
Substance use disorders

Criticisms of Abnormal Psychology

The field of abnormal psychology is not without criticism. In addition to debates over the use of the term "abnormal" itself, some believe that this area has a number of shortcomings.

In particular, some feel that this area stigmatizes vulnerable and oppressed people. Critics also suggest that the field of abnormal psychology tends to pathologize normal variations in human behavior.

Some also propose that the medical approach to mental illness often focuses only on biological and genetic determinants of distress rather than taking a more holistic view . It also does not account for the fact that there are major cultural differences in what is deemed normal and abnormal.

Research has also found that learning more about abnormal psychology appears to do little to combat stigma regarding mental illness. One study found that teaching students about abnormal psychology did not reduce mental health stigma, improve attitudes toward mental illness, or increase help-seeking behaviors among students.

Abnormal psychology may focus on atypical behavior, but its focus is not to ensure that all people fit into a narrow definition of "normal." In most cases, it is centered on identifying and treating problems that may be causing distress or impairment in some aspect of an individual's life. By better understanding what is "abnormal," researchers and therapists can come up with new ways to help people live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Correlational research is often used to study abnormal psychology because experimental research would be unethical or impossible. Researchers cannot intentionally manipulate variables to see if doing so causes mental illness. While correlational research does not allow researchers to determine cause and effect, it does provide valuable information on relationships between variables.

Key concepts include that abnormality can be viewed through many different lenses and that mental disorders often have multiple causes, including genetics and experiences. Another is that culture has an influence on how we define abnormality, so what is considered abnormal in one culture is perfectly normal in another.

The study of abnormal behavior dates back to the time of the ancient Greeks. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, thinkers such as Sigmund Freud suggested that mental health conditions could be treated with methods including talk therapy.

The study of abnormal psychology has helped researchers and therapists better understand the causes of mental disorders and develop methods to effectively treat these conditions. By understanding the factors that affect mental health, psychologists can help people overcome impairment, relieve distress, and restore functioning.

National Institute of Mental Health. Mental illness .

Bargh JA, Morsella E. The unconscious mind . Perspect Psychol Sci . 2008;3(1):73-9. doi:10.1111/j.1745-6916.2008.00064.x

Walinga J. Behaviourist psychology . In: Stangor C, Walinga J, eds. Introduction to Psychology: 1st Canadian edition. BCcampus Open Education.

Cheng AW, McCloskey K, Matacin ML. Teaching personality and abnormal psychology with inclusivity . In: Mena JA, Quina K, eds. Integrating Multiculturalism and Intersectionality into the Psychology Curriculum: Strategies for Instructors . American Psychological Association; 2019:225-241. doi:10.1037/0000137-018

Miller RB. Not so Abnormal Psychology: A Pragmatic View of Mental Illness . American Psychological Association; 2015. doi:10.1037/14693-000

Kendra MS, Cattaneo LB, Mohr JJ. Teaching abnormal psychology to improve attitudes toward mental illness and help-seeking . Teaching Psychol . 2012;39(1):57-61. doi:10.1177/0098628311430315

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Abnormal Psychology
Assessment (IB)
Biological Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Criminology
Developmental Psychology
Extended Essay
General Interest
Health Psychology
Human Relationships
IB Psychology
IB Psychology HL Extensions
Internal Assessment (IB)
Love and Marriage
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Prejudice and Discrimination
Qualitative Research Methods
Research Methodology
Revision and Exam Preparation
Social and Cultural Psychology
Studies and Theories
Teaching Ideas

Abnormal Psychology in 7 Studies

Travis Dixon January 20, 2021 Abnormal Psychology , Revision and Exam Preparation

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A challenging aspect of the IB Psychology course is remembering all the studies. It can be made easier. With some careful course planning (by teachers) and wise studying (by students), the Abnormal Psychology option could be covered in 7 studies.

The IB Guide states that “Each option is divided into three topics. For each option, there will be three essay titles to choose from, one for each topic in the option.” (IB Guide, pg 35). This is incredibly important to remember because it drastically reduces the amount of content you have to prepare.The following guidance is for the Abnormal Psychology option, since it’s the most popular.

Abnormal Psychology – Overview

The studies listed here are included in our revision resources .

Abnormal Psychology has three topics:

Factors influencing diagnosis
Etiology of abnormal psychology
Treatment of disorder(s)

The fact that questions might link “…research, ethical considerations, or the approaches to understanding behaviour … to the topic heading” (IB Guide, p35) means that you must choose which specific topic you revise carefully.

The examples provided in this post are based on the material in our PTSD unit in the textbook.

Exam Question Bank: Paper 2 Human Relationships
Exam Topics in IB Psychology Paper Two: Overview
Why do marriages end in divorce? A cognitive explanation

IB SL students can prepare for Paper Two in just 7 studies*.

Abnormal Psychology – The Exam Questions

Before we know which studies to choose, we have to know what exam questions might appear. The content for the Etiology topic is simple:

Explanations for disorder(s)
Prevalence rates and disorder(s)

Plus the potential exam questions on the following:

Research methods used to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
Ethical considerations in studies on the etiology of abnormal psychology
Biological approach to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
Cognitive approach to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
Sociocultural approach to the etiology of abnormal psychology

Careful study of the IB Guide can help you study smarter, not harder. (Taken from IB Guide p36).

Abnormal Psychology – The Studies

Explanations for disorders.

The following image shows how 7 studies can cover the topic “Explanations for disorders” (PTSD) in 7 studies. By carefully selecting explanations that are directly relevant to the three approaches, those questions are covered also.

Somes studies can be used for multiple approaches, like Urry (bio and cog) and Luby (soc-cult and bio).

Next we have “Prevalence.” When discussing prevalence of PTSD, we look at particular groups who have higher rates of diagnosis (i.e. PTSD is more prevalent in these groups). Three studies can cover three examples, including people from low socioeconomic status, racial minorities and women.

I encourage my students to become experts on socioeconomic status as a risk factor for PTSD, since this can be used for sociocultural explanations or prevalence rates.

I recommend revising the same studies for research methods and ethics to make these questions more manageable. For instance, anonymity is always relevant in correlational studies, especially those gathering sensitive data like symptoms of PTSD. The following three correlational studies could be used for an essay question on research methods and anonymity.

Note: It is possible you could be asked for a second research method. In this case, be prepared to write briefly about Urry et al. as a true experiment. Similarly, be prepared to write about a second ethical consideration, like informed consent (also relevant to Urry et al.)

Personally, I think Etiology of Abnormal Psychology lends itself to the best exam preparation. This is because it’s most logical how the three approaches are linked to this topic. Imagine how hard it would be to answer a question on how the biological approach is used to understanding factors influencing diagnosis. This is a potential question, albeit not a likely one.

Final Advice

Now you’ve made the exams easier by limiting the studies, focus on the concepts. This includes being able to explain how and why certain factors are associated with PTSD, as well as how and why research methods are used and ethical considerations are relevant. Develop your critical thinking as well and you’ll truly separate your answers from the rest. The goal isn’t about reducing studies, it’s about increasing your knowledge and understanding of psychology.

IB Psychology flashcards are now available here .

*This year (May 2021) Standard Level don’t actually have Paper Two since it’s cancelled due to covid. This means it’s actually HL students who can do Paper 2 in just 7 studies.

Travis Dixon is an IB Psychology teacher, author, workshop leader, examiner and IA moderator.

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119 Abnormal Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on studying unusual patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This field explores mental disorders and their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. If you are studying abnormal psychology or have an interest in the subject, you may need to write essays on various topics related to this field. To help you get started, here are 119 abnormal psychology essay topic ideas and examples.

The impact of childhood trauma on the development of mental disorders.
The role of genetics in the development of psychological disorders.
The relationship between substance abuse and mental illness.
Exploring the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches for treating anxiety disorders.
The influence of social media on body image and eating disorders among adolescents.
The psychological effects of long-term solitary confinement.
Understanding the causes and consequences of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Exploring the connection between depression and physical health.
The role of neurotransmitters in the development of schizophrenia.
The impact of cultural factors on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
The relationship between sleep disorders and mental health.
Examining the prevalence and treatment of borderline personality disorder.
The effects of bullying on mental health in children and adolescents.
Understanding the psychological impact of natural disasters on survivors.
The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of dissociative identity disorder (DID).
The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Exploring the stigma surrounding mental illness and its impact on help-seeking behavior.
The effects of parental divorce on the psychological well-being of children.
Understanding the causes and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The relationship between childhood adversity and the development of antisocial personality disorder.
Examining the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing stress and anxiety.
The impact of social support on the recovery from substance use disorders.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of eating disorders.
The role of trauma in the development of dissociative disorders.
Exploring the link between childhood maltreatment and the risk of developing depression in adulthood.
The effects of early-life stress on brain development and mental health outcomes.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing schizophrenia.
Examining the role of genetics in the development of bipolar disorder.
The impact of social isolation on mental health in older adults.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of agoraphobia.
The effects of media violence on aggressive behavior in children.
The relationship between childhood neglect and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating phobias.
The role of self-esteem in the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
The impact of discrimination on mental health outcomes among marginalized populations.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of hoarding disorder.
The effects of early attachment experiences on adult romantic relationships.
The relationship between trauma and the development of dissociative amnesia.
Examining the effectiveness of art therapy for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of parenting styles in the development of conduct disorder in children.
The impact of chronic illness on mental health and well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of gambling addiction.
The effects of social media use on body dissatisfaction and eating disorder risk.
The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing substance use disorders in adulthood.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating specific phobias.
The role of early-life adversity in the development of borderline personality disorder.
The impact of workplace stress on mental health and job performance.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of panic disorder.
The effects of childhood abuse on self-esteem and self-worth in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
The role of social support in the recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The impact of childhood neglect on cognitive development and academic achievement.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of body dysmorphic disorder.
The effects of parental substance abuse on child development and mental health outcomes.
The relationship between childhood trauma and the risk of developing dissociative disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating depression.
The role of trauma in the development of acute stress disorder.
The impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of social anxiety disorder.
The effects of bullying on adolescent self-esteem and mental health.
The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing conduct disorder.
Examining the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for individuals with borderline personality disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from eating disorders.
The impact of parental divorce on adult romantic relationships.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on cognitive development and academic achievement.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing anxiety disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of mindfulness in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
The impact of chronic pain on mental health and quality of life.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of generalized anxiety disorder.
The effects of childhood neglect on emotional regulation and self-control in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and interpersonal relationships.
Examining the effectiveness of family therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
The role of social support in the recovery from substance use disorders.
The impact of parental substance abuse on child behavior and emotional well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of postpartum depression.
The effects of childhood trauma on social skills and peer relationships.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing mood disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for trauma-related disorders.
The role of self-compassion in the treatment of eating disorders.
The impact of chronic illness on family dynamics and relationships.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of specific phobias.
The effects of childhood abuse on emotional intelligence and empathy in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and job performance.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with bipolar disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from depression.
The impact of childhood neglect on attachment styles and intimate relationships in adulthood.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on executive functioning and decision-making abilities.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing personality disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating panic disorder.
The role of self-esteem in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder.
The impact of chronic stress on immune function and physical health.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
The effects of childhood abuse on social cognition and interpersonal relationships.
The relationship between personality disorders and treatment outcomes.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for individuals with social anxiety disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from anxiety disorders.
The impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation and impulse control.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of substance use disorders.
The effects of childhood neglect on cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing eating disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of self-compassion in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
The impact of chronic illness on psychological well-being and coping strategies.
The effects of childhood abuse on emotional regulation and anger management in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and suicide risk.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with anxiety disorders.
The role of social support in the recovery from obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The impact of childhood neglect on self-esteem and self-confidence in adulthood.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of dissociative identity disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on attachment styles and romantic relationships in adulthood.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
The role of self-esteem in the treatment of panic disorder.
The impact of chronic stress on mental health and cognitive functioning.

These essay topic ideas provide a wide range of options to explore the fascinating field of abnormal psychology. Remember to choose a topic that interests you and allows you to delve deeper into the subject matter. Good luck with your essays!

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Module 2: Research and Ethics in Abnormal Psychology

Introduction to research, what you’ll learn to do: examine how descriptive, correlational, and experimental research is used to study abnormal behavior.

Three researchers review data while talking around a microscope.

As you learned in the previous module, the scientific approach led to major advances in understanding abnormal behavior and treating mental disorders. The essence of the scientific method is objectivity. It expresses the idea that the claims, methods, and results of science are not, or should not be, influenced by particular perspectives, value commitments, community bias, or personal interests, to name a few relevant factors. In addition, researchers must always be open to alternative explanations that could account for their findings. Many researchers have a personal interest in what they are studying and they become involved in the pursuit of knowledge in areas that relate to experiences in their own lives, particularly in the field of abnormal psychology. Clinical psychologists may wonder whether a particular kind of experience led to an individual’s symptoms, whether a certain treatment will be effective to treat the symptoms of a disorder, or they may speculate about the role of genetic predispositions. In either case, when conducting research, however, t hey do not let their personal biases get in the way of collecting the data or interpreting the findings. T he ideal approach to answering these questions involves a progression through a set of steps in which psychological researchers propose a hypothesis, conduct a study, and collect and analyze the data.

In this section, we will take a closer look at how to examine research and the main types of studies used: descriptive, experimental, and correlational. Descriptive, or qualitative, methods include the case study, naturalistic observation, surveys, epidemiological research, archival research, longitudinal research, and cross-sectional research.

When scientists passively observe and measure phenomena, it is called correlational research. Here, psychologists do not intervene and change behavior as they do in experiments. In correlational research, they identify patterns of relationships, but usually cannot infer what causes what. Importantly, with correlational research, you can examine only two variables at a time, no more and no less.

Introductory content. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Modification and adaptation. Authored by : Sonja Ann Miller for Lumen Learning. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
Paragraph on correlation. Authored by : Christie Napa Scollon. Provided by : Singapore Management University. Located at : http://nobaproject.com/modules/research-designs?r=MTc0ODYsMjMzNjQ%3D . Project : The Noba Project. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Psychology. Authored by : OpenStax College. Located at : http://cnx.org/contents/[email protected]:mfArybye@7/Analyzing-Findings . License : CC BY: Attribution . License Terms : Download for free at http://cnx.org/contents/[email protected]
The Scientific Method. Provided by : Wikipedia. Located at : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_method . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
Objectivity. Provided by : Wikipedia. Located at : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Objectivity_(science)#Objectivity_in_measurement . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
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Module 1: What is Abnormal Psychology?

3rd edition as of July 2023

Module Overview

Cassie is an 18-year-old female from suburban Seattle, WA. She was a successful student in high school, graduating valedictorian and obtaining a National Merit Scholarship for her performance on the PSAT during her junior year. She was accepted to a university on the opposite side of the state, where she received additional scholarships giving her a free ride for her entire undergraduate education. Excited to start this new chapter in her life, Cassie’s parents begin the 5-hour commute to Pullman, where they will leave their only daughter for the first time in her life.

The semester begins as it always does in mid to late August. Cassie meets the challenge with enthusiasm and does well in her classes for the first few weeks of the semester, as expected. Sometime around Week 6, her friends notice she is despondent, detached, and falling behind in her work. After being asked about her condition, she replies that she is “just a bit homesick,” and her friends accept this answer as it is a typical response to leaving home and starting college for many students. A month later, her condition has not improved but worsened. She now regularly shirks her responsibilities around her apartment, in her classes, and on her job. Cassie does not hang out with friends like she did when she first arrived for college and stays in bed most of the day. Concerned, Cassie’s friends contact Health and Wellness for help.

Cassie’s story, though hypothetical, is true of many Freshmen leaving home for the first time to earn a higher education, whether in rural Washington state or urban areas such as Chicago and Dallas. Most students recover from this depression and go on to be functional members of their collegiate environment and accomplished scholars. Some students learn to cope on their own while others seek assistance from their university’s health and wellness center or from friends who have already been through the same ordeal. These are normal reactions. However, in cases like Cassie’s, the path to recovery is not as clear. Instead of learning how to cope, their depression increases until it reaches clinical levels and becomes an impediment to success in multiple domains of life such as home, work, school, and social circles.

In Module 1, we will explore what it means to display abnormal behavior, what mental disorders are, and the way society views mental illness today and how it has been regarded throughout history. Then we will review research methods used by psychologists in general and how they are adapted to study abnormal behavior/mental disorders. We will conclude with an overview of what mental health professionals do.

Module Outline

1.1. Understanding Abnormal Behavior

1.2. classifying mental disorders, 1.3. the stigma of mental illness, 1.4. the history of mental illness, 1.5. research methods in psychopathology, 1.6. mental health professionals, societies, and journals.

Module Learning Outcomes

Explain what it means to display abnormal behavior.
Clarify how mental health professionals classify mental disorders.
Describe the effect of stigma on those who have a mental illness.
Outline the history of mental illness.
Describe the research methods used to study abnormal behavior and mental illness.
Identify types of mental health professionals, societies they may join, and journals they can publish their work in.

Section Learning Objectives

Describe the disease model and its impact on the field of psychology throughout history.
Describe positive psychology.
Define abnormal behavior.
Explain the concept of dysfunction as it relates to mental illness.
Explain the concept of distress as it relates to mental illness.
Explain the concept of deviance as it relates to mental illness.
Explain the concept of dangerousness as it relates to mental illness.
Define culture and social norms.
Clarify the cost of mental illness on society.
Define abnormal psychology, psychopathology, and mental disorders.

1.1.1. Understanding Abnormal Behavior

To understand what abnormal behavior is, we first have to understand what normal behavior is. Normal really is in the eye of the beholder, and most psychologists have found it easier to explain what is wrong with people then what is right. How so?

Psychology worked with the disease model for over 60 years, from about the late 1800s into the middle part of the 20th century. The focus was simple – curing mental disorders – and included such pioneers as Freud, Adler, Klein, Jung, and Erickson. These names are synonymous with the psychoanalytical school of thought. In the 1930s, behaviorism, under B.F. Skinner, presented a new view of human behavior. Simply, human behavior could be modified if the correct combination of reinforcements and punishments were used. This viewpoint espoused the dominant worldview of the time – mechanism – which presented the world as a great machine explained through the principles of physics and chemistry. In it, human beings serve as smaller machines in the larger machine of the universe.

Moving into the mid to late 1900s, we developed a more scientific investigation of mental illness, which allowed us to examine the roles of both nature and nurture and to develop drug and psychological treatments to “make miserable people less miserable.” Though this was an improvement, there were three consequences as pointed out by Martin Seligman in his 2008 TED Talk entitled, “The new era of positive psychology.” These are:

“The first was moral; that psychologists and psychiatrists became victimologists, pathologizers; that our view of human nature was that if you were in trouble, bricks fell on you. And we forgot that people made choices and decisions. We forgot responsibility. That was the first cost.”
“The second cost was that we forgot about you people. We forgot about improving normal lives. We forgot about a mission to make relatively untroubled people happier, more fulfilled, more productive. And “genius,” “high-talent,” became a dirty word. No one works on that.”
“And the third problem about the disease model is, in our rush to do something about people in trouble, in our rush to do something about repairing damage, it never occurred to us to develop interventions to make people happier — positive interventions.”

Starting in the 1960s, figures such as Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers sought to overcome the limitations of psychoanalysis and behaviorism by establishing a “third force” psychology, also known as humanistic psychology. As Maslow said,

“The science of psychology has been far more successful on the negative than on the positive side; it has revealed to us much about man’s shortcomings, his illnesses, his sins, but little about his potentialities, his virtues, his achievable aspirations, or his full psychological height. It is as if psychology had voluntarily restricted itself to only half its rightful jurisdiction, and that the darker, meaner half.” (Maslow, 1954, p. 354).

Humanistic psychology instead addressed the full range of human functioning and focused on personal fulfillment, valuing feelings over intellect, hedonism, a belief in human perfectibility, emphasis on the present, self-disclosure, self-actualization, positive regard, client centered therapy, and the hierarchy of needs. Again, these topics were in stark contrast to much of the work being done in the field of psychology up to and at this time.

In 1996, Martin Seligman became the president of the American Psychological Association (APA) and called for a positive psychology or one that had a more positive conception of human potential and nature. Building on Maslow and Roger’s work, he ushered in the scientific study of such topics as happiness, love, hope, optimism, life satisfaction, goal setting, leisure, and subjective well-being. Though positive and humanistic psychology have similarities, their methodology was much different. While humanistic psychology generally relied on qualitative methods, positive psychology utilizes a quantitative approach and aims to help people make the most out of life’s setbacks, relate well to others, find fulfillment in creativity, and find lasting meaning and satisfaction ( https://www.positivepsychologyinstitute.com.au/what-is-positive-psychology ).

So, to understand what normal behavior is, do we look to positive psychology for an indication, or do we first define abnormal behavior and then reverse engineer a definition of what normal is? Our preceding discussion gave suggestions about what normal behavior is, but could the darker elements of our personality also make up what is normal to some extent? Possibly. The one truth is that no matter what behavior we display, if taken to the extreme, it can become disordered – whether trying to control others through social influence or helping people in an altruistic fashion. As such, we can consider abnormal behavior to be a combination of personal distress, psychological dysfunction, deviance from social norms, dangerousness to self and others, and costliness to society.

1.1.2. How Do We Determine What Abnormal Behavior Is?

In the previous section we showed that what we might consider normal behavior is difficult to define. Equally challenging is understanding what abnormal behavior is, which may be surprising to you. A publication which you will become intimately familiar with throughout this book, the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR; 2022), states that, “Although no definition can capture all aspects of the range of disorders contained in DSM-5″ (pg. 13) certain aspects are required. These include:

Dysfunction – Includes “clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotion regulation, or behavior that reflects a dysfunction in the psychological, biological, or developmental processes underlying mental functioning” (pg. 14). Abnormal behavior, therefore, has the capacity to make well-being difficult to obtain and can be assessed by looking at an individual’s current performance and comparing it to what is expected in general or how the person has performed in the past. As such, a good employee who suddenly demonstrates poor performance may be experiencing an environmental demand leading to stress and ineffective coping mechanisms. Once the demand resolves itself, the person’s performance should return to normal according to this principle.
Distress – When the person experiences a disabling condition “in social, occupational, or other important activities” (pg. 14). Distress can take the form of psychological or physical pain, or both concurrently. Alone though, distress is not sufficient enough to describe behavior as abnormal. Why is that? The loss of a loved one would cause even the most “normally” functioning individual pain. An athlete who experiences a career-ending injury would display distress as well. Suffering is part of life and cannot be avoided. And some people who exhibit abnormal behavior are generally positive while doing so.
Deviance – Closer examination of the word abnormal indicates a move away from what is normal, or the mean (i.e., what would be considered average and in this case in relation to behavior), and so is behavior that infrequently occurs (sort of an outlier in our data). Our culture , or the totality of socially transmitted behaviors, customs, values, technology, attitudes, beliefs, art, and other products that are particular to a group, determines what is normal. Thus, a person is said to be deviant when he or she fails to follow the stated and unstated rules of society, called social norms . Social norms change over time due to shifts in accepted values and expectations. For instance, homosexuality was taboo in the U.S. just a few decades ago, but today, it is generally accepted. Likewise, PDAs, or public displays of affection, do not cause a second look by most people unlike the past when these outward expressions of love were restricted to the privacy of one’s own house or bedroom. In the U.S., crying is generally seen as a weakness for males. However, if the behavior occurs in the context of a tragedy such as the Vegas mass shooting on October 1, 2017, in which 58 people were killed and about 500 were wounded while attending the Route 91 Harvest Festival, then it is appropriate and understandable. Finally, consider that statistically deviant behavior is not necessarily negative. Genius is an example of behavior that is not the norm.

Though not part of the DSM conceptualization of what abnormal behavior is, many clinicians add dangerousness to this list when behavior represents a threat to the safety of the person or others. It is important to note that having a mental disorder does not imply a person is automatically dangerous. The depressed or anxious individual is often no more a threat than someone who is not depressed, and as Hiday and Burns (2010) showed, dangerousness is more the exception than the rule. Still, mental health professionals have a duty to report to law enforcement when a mentally disordered individual expresses intent to harm another person or themselves. It is important to point out that people seen as dangerous are also not automatically mentally ill.

1.1.3. The Costs of Mental Illness

This leads us to wonder what the cost of mental illness is to society. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that mental illness affects a person’s life which then ripples out to the family, community, and world. For instance, people with serious mental illness are at increased risk for diabetes, cancer, and cardiometabolic disease while 18% of those with a mental illness also have a substance use disorder. Within the family, an estimated 8.4 million Americans provide care to an adult with an emotional or mental illness with caregivers spending about 32 hours a week providing unpaid care. At the community level 21% of the homeless also have a serious mental illness while 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system have at least one mental health condition. And finally, depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion each year in lost productivity (Source: NAMI, The Ripple Effect of Mental Illness infographic; https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers ).

In terms of worldwide impact, data from 2010 estimates $2.5 trillion in global costs, with $1.7 trillion being indirect costs (i.e., invisible costs “associated with income losses due to mortality, disability, and care seeking, including lost production due to work absence or early retirement”) and the remainder being direct (i.e., visible costs to include “medication, physician visits, psychotherapy sessions, hospitalization,” etc.). It is now projected that mental illness costs will be around $16 trillion by 2030. The authors add, “It should be noted that these calculations did not include costs associated with mental disorders from outside the healthcare system, such as legal costs caused by illicit drug abuse” (Trautmann, Rehm, & Wittchen, 2016). The costs for mental illness have also been found to be greater than the combined costs of somatic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and respiratory disorders (Whiteford et al., 2013).

Christensen et al. (2020) did a review of 143 cost-of-illness studies that covered 48 countries and several types of mental illness. Their results showed that mental disorders are a substantial economic burden for societies and that certain groups of mental disorders are more costly than others. At the higher cost end were developmental disorders to include autism spectrum disorders followed by schizophrenia and intellectual disabilities. They write, “However, it is important to note that while disorders such as mood, neurotic and substance use disorders were less costly according to societal cost per patient, these disorders are much more prevalent and thus would contribute substantially to the total national cost in a country.” And much like Trautmann, Rehm, & Wittchen (2016) other studies show that indirect costs are higher than direct costs (Jin & Mosweu, 2017; Chong et al., 2016).

1.1.4. Defining Key Terms

Our discussion so far has concerned what normal and abnormal behavior is. We saw that the study of normal behavior falls under the providence of positive psychology. Similarly, the scientific study of abnormal behavior, with the intent to be able to predict reliably, explain, diagnose, identify the causes of, and treat maladaptive behavior, is what we refer to as abnormal psychology . Abnormal behavior can become pathological and has led to the scientific study of psychological disorders, or psychopathology . From our previous discussion we can fashion the following definition of a psychological or mental disorder: mental disorders are characterized by psychological dysfunction, which causes physical and/or psychological distress or impaired functioning, and is not an expected behavior according to societal or cultural standards.

Key Takeaways

You should have learned the following in this section:

Abnormal behavior is a combination of personal distress, psychological dysfunction, deviance from social norms, dangerousness to self and others, and costliness to society.
Abnormal psychology is the scientific study of abnormal behavior, with the intent to be able to predict reliably, explain, diagnose, identify the causes of, and treat maladaptive behavior.
The study of psychological disorders is called psychopathology.
Mental disorders are characterized by psychological dysfunction, which causes physical and/or psychological distress or impaired functioning, and is not an expected behavior according to societal or cultural standards

Section 1.1 Review Questions

What is the disease model and what problems existed with it? What was to overcome its limitations?
Can we adequately define normal behavior? What about abnormal behavior?
What aspects are part of the American Psychiatric Association’s definition of abnormal behavior?
How costly is mental illness?
What is abnormal psychology?
What is psychopathology?
How do we define mental disorders?
Define and exemplify classification.
Define nomenclature.
Define epidemiology.
Define the presenting problem and clinical description.
Differentiate prevalence, incidence, and any subtypes.
Define comorbidity.
Define etiology.
Define course.
Define prognosis.
Define treatment.

1.2.1. Classification

Classification is not a foreign concept and as a student you have likely taken at least one biology class that discussed the taxonomic classification system of Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species revolutionized by Swedish botanist, Carl Linnaeus. You probably even learned a witty mnemonic such as ‘King Phillip, Come Out For Goodness Sake’ to keep the order straight. The Library of Congress uses classification to organize and arrange their book collections and includes such categories as B – Philosophy, Psychology, and Religion; H – Social Sciences; N – Fine Arts; Q – Science; R – Medicine; and T – Technology.

Simply, classification is how we organize or categorize things. The second author’s wife has been known to color-code her Blu Ray collection by genre, movie title, and release date. It is useful for us to do the same with abnormal behavior, and classification provides us with a nomenclature , or naming system, to structure our understanding of mental disorders in a meaningful way. Of course, we want to learn as much as we can about a given disorder so we can understand its cause, predict its future occurrence, and develop ways to treat it.

1.2.2. Determining Occurrence of a Disorder

Epidemiology is the scientific study of the frequency and causes of diseases and other health-related states in specific populations such as a school, neighborhood, a city, country, and the world. Psychiatric or mental health epidemiology refers to the occurrence of mental disorders in a population. In mental health facilities, we say that a patient presents with a specific problem, or the presenting problem , and we give a clinical description of it, which includes information about the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that constitute that mental disorder. We also seek to gain information about the occurrence of the disorder, its cause, course, and treatment possibilities.

Occurrence can be investigated in several ways. First, prevalence is the percentage of people in a population that has a mental disorder or can be viewed as the number of cases divided by the total number of people in the sample. For instance, if 20 people out of 100 have bipolar disorder, then the prevalence rate is 20%. Prevalence can be measured in several ways:

Point prevalence indicates the proportion of a population that has the characteristic at a specific point in time. In other words, it is the number of active cases.
Period prevalence indicates the proportion of a population that has the characteristic at any point during a given period of time, typically the past year.
Lifetime prevalence indicates the proportion of a population that has had the characteristic at any time during their lives.

According to a 2020 infographic by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), for U.S. adults, 1 in 5 experienced a mental illness, 1 in 20 had a serious mental illness, 1 in 15 experienced both a substance use disorder and mental disorder, and over 12 million had serious thoughts of suicide (2020 Mental Health By the Numbers: US Adults infographic). In terms of adolescents aged 12-17, in 2020 1 in 6 experienced a major depressive episode, 3 million had serious thoughts of suicide, and there was a 31% increase in mental health-related emergency department visits. Among U.S. young adults aged 18-25, 1 in 3 experienced a mental illness, 1 in 10 had a serious mental illness, and 3.8 had serious thoughts of suicide (2020 Mental Health By the Numbers: Youth and Young Adults infographic). These numbers would represent period prevalence rates during the pandemic, and for the year 2020. In the, You are Not Alone infographic, NAMI reported the following 12-month prevalence rates for U.S. Adults: 19% having an anxiety disorder, 8% having depression, 4% having PTSD, 3% having bipolar disorder, and 1% having schizophrenia.

Source: https://www.nami.org/mhstats

Incidence indicates the number of new cases in a population over a specific period. This measure is usually lower since it does not include existing cases as prevalence does. If you wish to know the number of new cases of social phobia during the past year (going from say Aug 21, 2015 to Aug 20, 2016), you would only count cases that began during this time and ignore cases before the start date, even if people are currently afflicted with the mental disorder. Incidence is often studied by medical and public health officials so that causes can be identified, and future cases prevented.

Finally, comorbidity describes when two or more mental disorders are occurring at the same time and in the same person. The National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R) study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and published in the June 6, 2005 issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry, sought to discover trends in prevalence, impairment, and service use during the 1990s. The first study, conducted from 1980 to 1985, surveyed 20,000 people from five different geographical regions in the U.S. A second study followed from 1990-1992 and was called the National Comorbidity Survey (NCS). The third study, the NCS-R, used a new nationally representative sample of the U.S. population, and found that 45% of those with one mental disorder met the diagnostic criteria for two or more disorders. The authors also found that the severity of mental illness, in terms of disability, is strongly related to comorbidity, and that substance use disorders often result from disorders such as anxiety and bipolar disorders. The implications of this are significant as services to treat substance abuse and mental disorders are often separate, despite the disorders appearing together.

1.2.3. Other Key Factors Related to Mental Disorders

The etiology is the cause of the disorder. There may be social, biological, or psychological explanations for the disorder which need to be understood to identify the appropriate treatment. Likewise, the effectiveness of a treatment may give some hint at the cause of the mental disorder. More on this in Module 2.

The course of the disorder is its particular pattern. A disorder may be acute , meaning that it lasts a short time, or chronic, meaning it persists for a long time. It can also be classified as time-limited , meaning that recovery will occur after some time regardless of whether any treatment occurs.

Prognosis is the anticipated course the mental disorder will take. A key factor in determining the course is age, with some disorders presenting differently in childhood than adulthood.

Finally, we will discuss several treatment strategies in this book in relation to specific disorders, and in a general fashion in Module 3. Treatment is any procedure intended to modify abnormal behavior into normal behavior. The person suffering from the mental disorder seeks the assistance of a trained professional to provide some degree of relief over a series of therapy sessions. The trained mental health professional may prescribe medication or utilize psychotherapy to bring about this change. Treatment may be sought from the primary care provider, in an outpatient facility, or through inpatient care or hospitalization at a mental hospital or psychiatric unit of a general hospital. According to NAMI, the average delay between symptom onset and treatment is 11 years with 45% of adults with mental illness, 66% of adults with serious mental illness, and 51% of youth with a mental health condition seeking treatment in a given year. They also report that 50% of white, 49% of lesbian/gay and bisexual, 43% of mixed/multiracial, 34% of Hispanic or Latinx, 33% of black, and 23% of Asian adults with a mental health diagnosis received treatment or counseling in the past year (Source: Mental Health Care Matters infographic, https://www.nami.org/mhstats ).

Classification, or how we organize or categorize things, provides us with a nomenclature, or naming system, to structure our understanding of mental disorders in a meaningful way.
Epidemiology is the scientific study of the frequency and causes of diseases and other health-related states in specific populations.
Prevalence is the percentage of people in a population that has a mental disorder or can be viewed as the number of cases divided by the total number of people in the sample.
Incidence indicates the number of new cases in a population over a specific period.
Comorbidity describes when two or more mental disorders are occurring at the same time and in the same person.
The etiology is the cause of a disorder while the course is its particular pattern and can be acute, chronic, or time-limited.
Prognosis is the anticipated course the mental disorder will take.

Section 1.2 Review Questions

What is the importance of classification for the study of mental disorders?
What information does a clinical description include?
In what ways is occurrence investigated?
What is the etiology of a mental illness?
What is the relationship of course and prognosis to one another?
What is treatment and who seeks it?
Clarify the importance of social cognition theory in understanding why people do not seek care.
Define categories and schemas.
Define stereotypes and heuristics.
Describe social identity theory and its consequences.
Differentiate between prejudice and discrimination.
Contrast implicit and explicit attitudes.
Explain the concept of stigma and its three forms.
Define courtesy stigma.
Describe what the literature shows about stigma.

In the previous section, we discussed the fact that care can be sought out in a variety of ways. The problem is that many people who need care never seek it out. Why is that? We already know that society dictates what is considered abnormal behavior through culture and social norms, and you can likely think of a few implications of that. But to fully understand society’s role in why people do not seek care, we need to determine the psychological processes underlying this phenomenon in the individual.

Social cognition is the process through which we collect information from the world around us and then interpret it. The collection process occurs through what we know as sensation – or detecting physical energy emitted or reflected by physical objects. Detection occurs courtesy of our eyes, ears, nose, skin and mouth; or via vision, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, respectfully. Once collected, the information is relayed to the brain through the neural impulse where it is processed and interpreted, or meaning is added to this raw sensory data which we call perception .

One way meaning is added is by taking the information we just detected and using it to assign people to categories , or groups. For each category, we have a schema , or a set of beliefs and expectations about a group of people, believed to apply to all members of the group, and based on experience. You might think of them as organized ways of making sense of experience. So, it is during our initial interaction with someone that we collect information about them, assign the person to a category for which we have a schema, and then use that to affect how we interact with them. First impressions, called the primacy effect , are important because even if we obtain new information that should override an incorrect initial assessment, the initial impression is unlikely to change. We call this the perseverance effect , or belief perseverance .

Stereotypes are special types of schemas that are very simplistic, very strongly held, and not based on firsthand experience. They are heuristics , or mental shortcuts, that allow us to assess this collected information very quickly. One piece of information, such as skin color, can be used to assign the person to a schema for which we have a stereotype. This can affect how we think or feel about the person and behave toward them. Again, human beings tend to imply things about an individual solely due to a distinguishing feature and disregard anything inconsistent with the stereotype.

Social identity theory (Tajfel, 1982; Turner, 1987) states that people categorize their social world into meaningfully simplistic representations of groups of people. These representations are then organized as prototypes , or “fuzzy sets of a relatively limited number of category-defining features that not only define one category but serve to distinguish it from other categories” (Foddy and Hogg, as cited in Foddy et al., 1999). We construct in-groups and out-groups and categorize the self as an in-group member. The self is assimilated into the salient in-group prototype, which indicates what cognitions, affect, and behavior we may exhibit. Stereotyping, out-group homogeneity, in-group/out-group bias, normative behavior, and conformity are all based on self-categorization.

How so? Out-group homogeneity occurs when we see all members of an outside group as the same. This leads to a tendency to show favoritism to, and exclude or hold a negative view of, members outside of, one’s immediate group, called the in-group/out-group bias . The negative view or set of beliefs about a group of people is what we call prejudice , and this can result in acting in a way that is negative against a group of people, called discrimination . It should be noted that a person can be prejudicial without being discriminatory since most people do not act on their attitudes toward others due to social norms against such behavior. Likewise, a person or institution can be discriminatory without being prejudicial. For example, when a company requires that an applicant have a certain education level or be able to lift 80 pounds as part of typical job responsibilities. Individuals without a degree or ability to lift will be removed from consideration for the job, but this discriminatory act does not mean that the company has negative views of people without degrees or the inability to lift heavy weight. You might even hold a negative view of a specific group of people and not be aware of it. An attitude we are unaware of is called an implicit attitude , which stands in contrast to explicit attitudes, which are the views within our conscious awareness.

We have spent quite a lot of space and time understanding how people gather information about the world and people around them, process this information, use it to make snap judgements about others, form groups for which stereotypes may exist, and then potentially hold negative views of this group and behave negatively toward them as a result. Just one piece of information can be used to set this series of mental events into motion. Outside of skin color, the label associated with having a mental disorder can be used. Stereotypes about people with a mental disorder can quickly and easily transform into prejudice when people in a society determine the schema to be correct and form negative emotions and evaluations of this group (Eagly & Chaiken, 1993). This, in turn, can lead to discriminatory practices such as an employer refusing to hire, a landlord refusing to rent an apartment, or avoiding a romantic relationship, all due to the person having a mental illness.

Overlapping with prejudice and discrimination in terms of how people with mental disorders are treated is stigma , or when negative stereotyping, labeling, rejection, and loss of status occur. Stigma takes on three forms as described below:

Public stigma – When members of a society endorse negative stereotypes of people with a mental disorder and discriminate against them. They might avoid them altogether, resulting in social isolation. An example is when an employer intentionally does not hire a person because their mental illness is discovered.
Label avoidance –To avoid being labeled as “crazy” or “nuts” people needing care may avoid seeking it altogether or stop care once started. Due to these labels, funding for mental health services could be restricted and instead, physical health services funded.
Self-stigma – When people with mental illnesses internalize the negative stereotypes and prejudice, and in turn, discriminate against themselves. They may experience shame, reduced self-esteem, hopelessness, low self-efficacy, and a reduction in coping mechanisms. An obvious consequence of these potential outcomes is the why try effect, or the person saying ‘Why should I try and get that job? I am not worthy of it’ (Corrigan, Larson, & Rusch, 2009; Corrigan, et al., 2016).

Another form of stigma that is worth noting is that of courtesy stigma or when stigma affects people associated with a person who has a mental disorder. Karnieli-Miller et al. (2013) found that families of the afflicted were often blamed, rejected, or devalued when others learned that a family member had a serious mental illness (SMI). Due to this, they felt hurt and betrayed, and an important source of social support during a difficult time had disappeared, resulting in greater levels of stress. To cope, some families concealed their relative’s illness, and some parents struggled to decide whether it was their place to disclose their child’s condition. Others fought with the issue of confronting the stigma through attempts at education versus just ignoring it due to not having enough energy or desiring to maintain personal boundaries. There was also a need to understand the responses of others and to attribute it to a lack of knowledge, experience, and/or media coverage. In some cases, the reappraisal allowed family members to feel compassion for others rather than feeling put down or blamed. The authors concluded that each family “develops its own coping strategies which vary according to its personal experiences, values, and extent of other commitments” and that “coping strategies families employ change over-time.”

Other effects of stigma include experiencing work-related discrimination resulting in higher levels of self-stigma and stress (Rusch et al., 2014), higher rates of suicide especially when treatment is not available (Rusch, Zlati, Black, and Thornicroft, 2014; Rihmer & Kiss, 2002), and a decreased likelihood of future help-seeking intention (Lally et al., 2013). The results of the latter study also showed that personal contact with someone with a history of mental illness led to a decreased likelihood of seeking help. This is important because 48% of the university sample stated that they needed help for an emotional or mental health issue during the past year but did not seek help. Similar results have been reported in other studies (Eisenberg, Downs, Golberstein, & Zivin, 2009). It is also important to point out that social distance, a result of stigma, has also been shown to increase throughout the life span, suggesting that anti-stigma campaigns should focus on older people primarily (Schomerus, et al., 2015).

One potentially disturbing trend is that mental health professionals have been shown to hold negative attitudes toward the people they serve. Hansson et al. (2011) found that staff members at an outpatient clinic in the southern part of Sweden held the most negative attitudes about whether an employer would accept an applicant for work, willingness to date a person who had been hospitalized, and hiring a patient to care for children. Attitudes were stronger when staff treated patients with a psychosis or in inpatient settings. In a similar study,

Martensson, Jacobsson, and Engstrom (2014) found that staff had more positive attitudes towards persons with mental illness if their knowledge of such disorders was less stigmatized; their workplaces were in the county council where they were more likely to encounter patients who recover and return to normal life in society, rather than in municipalities where patients have long-term and recurrent mental illness; and they have or had one close friend with mental health issues.

To help deal with stigma in the mental health community, Papish et al. (2013) investigated the effect of a one-time contact-based educational intervention compared to a four-week mandatory psychiatry course on the stigma of mental illness among medical students at the University of Calgary. The curriculum included two methods requiring contact with people diagnosed with a mental disorder: patient presentations, or two one-hour oral presentations in which patients shared their story of having a mental illness, and “clinical correlations” in which a psychiatrist mentored students while they interacted with patients in either inpatient or outpatient settings. Results showed that medical students held a stigma towards mental illness and that comprehensive medical education reduced this stigma. As the authors stated, “These results suggest that it is possible to create an environment in which medical student attitudes towards mental illness can be shifted in a positive direction.” That said, the level of stigma was still higher for mental illness than it was for the stigmatized physical illness, type 2 diabetes mellitus.

What might happen if mental illness is presented as a treatable condition? McGinty, Goldman, Pescosolido, and Barry (2015) found that portraying schizophrenia, depression, and heroin addiction as untreated and symptomatic increased negative public attitudes towards people with these conditions. Conversely, when the same people were portrayed as successfully treated, the desire for social distance was reduced, there was less willingness to discriminate against them, and belief in treatment effectiveness increased among the public.

Self-stigma has also been shown to affect self-esteem, which then affects hope, which then affects the quality of life among people with severe mental illness. As such, hope should play a central role in recovery (Mashiach-Eizenberg et al., 2013). Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT) is an intervention designed to reduce internalized stigma and targets both hope and self-esteem (Yanos et al., 2011). The intervention replaces stigmatizing myths with facts about illness and recovery, which leads to hopefulness and higher levels of self-esteem in clients. This may then reduce susceptibility to internalized stigma.

Stigma leads to health inequities (Hatzenbuehler, Phelan, & Link, 2013), prompting calls for stigma change. Targeting stigma involves two different agendas: The services agenda attempts to remove stigma so people can seek mental health services, and the rights agenda tries to replace discrimination that “robs people of rightful opportunities with affirming attitudes and behavior” (Corrigan, 2016). The former is successful when there is evidence that people with mental illness are seeking services more or becoming better engaged. The latter is successful when there is an increase in the number of people with mental illnesses in the workforce who are receiving reasonable accommodations. The federal government has tackled this issue with landmark legislation such as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. However, protections are not uniform across all subgroups due to “1) explicit language about inclusion and exclusion criteria in the statute or implementation rule, 2) vague statutory language that yields variation in the interpretation about which groups qualify for protection, and 3) incentives created by the legislation that affect specific groups differently” (Cummings, Lucas, and Druss, 2013). More on this in Module 15.

Stigma is when negative stereotyping, labeling, rejection, and loss of status occur and take the form of public or self-stigma, and label avoidance.

Section 1.3 Review Questions

How does social cognition help us to understand why stigmatization occurs?
Define stigma and describe its three forms. What is courtesy stigma?
What are the effects of stigma on the afflicted?
Is stigmatization prevalent in the mental health community? If so, what can be done about it?
How can we reduce stigmatization?
Describe prehistoric and ancient beliefs about mental illness.
Describe Greco-Roman thought on mental illness.
Describe thoughts on mental illness during the Middle Ages.
Describe thoughts on mental illness during the Renaissance.
Describe thoughts on mental illness during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Describe thoughts on mental illness during the 20th and 21st centuries.
Describe the status of mental illness today.
Outline the use of psychoactive drugs throughout time and their impact.
Clarify the importance of managed health care for the treatment of mental illness.
Define and clarify the importance of multicultural psychology.
State the issue surrounding prescription rights for psychologists.
Explain the importance of prevention science.

As we have seen so far, what is considered abnormal behavior is often dictated by the culture/society a person lives in, and unfortunately, the past has not treated the afflicted very well. In this section, we will examine how past societies viewed and dealt with mental illness.

1.4.1. Prehistoric and Ancient Beliefs

Prehistoric cultures often held a supernatural view of abnormal behavior and saw it as the work of evil spirits, demons, gods, or witches who took control of the person. This form of demonic possession often occurred when the person engaged in behavior contrary to the religious teachings of the time. Treatment by cave dwellers included a technique called trephination , in which a stone instrument known as a trephine was used to remove part of the skull, creating an opening. Through it, the evil spirits could escape, thereby ending the person’s mental affliction and returning them to normal behavior. Early Greek, Hebrew, Egyptian, and Chinese cultures used a treatment method called exorcism in which evil spirts were cast out through prayer, magic, flogging, starvation, having the person ingest horrible tasting drinks, or noisemaking.

1.4.2. Greco-Roman Thought

Rejecting the idea of demonic possession, Greek physician Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.) said that mental disorders were akin to physical ailments and had natural causes. Specifically, they arose from brain pathology , or head trauma/brain dysfunction or disease, and were also affected by heredity. Hippocrates classified mental disorders into three main categories – melancholia, mania, and phrenitis (brain fever) – and gave detailed clinical descriptions of each. He also described four main fluids or humors that directed normal brain functioning and personality – blood which arose in the heart, black bile arising in the spleen, yellow bile or choler from the liver, and phlegm from the brain. Mental disorders occurred when the humors were in a state of imbalance such as an excess of yellow bile causing frenzy and too much black bile causing melancholia or depression. Hippocrates believed mental illnesses could be treated as any other disorder and focused on the underlying pathology.

Also noteworthy was the Greek philosopher Plato (429-347 B.C.), who said that the mentally ill were not responsible for their actions and should not be punished. It was the responsibility of the community and their families to care for them. The Greek physician Galen (A.D. 129-199) said mental disorders had either physical or psychological causes, including fear, shock, alcoholism, head injuries, adolescence, and changes in menstruation.

In Rome, physician Asclepiades (124-40 BC) and philosopher Cicero (106-43 BC) rejected Hippocrates’ idea of the four humors and instead stated that melancholy arises from grief, fear, and rage; not excess black bile. Roman physicians treated mental disorders with massage or warm baths, the hope being that their patients would be as comfortable as they could be. They practiced the concept of contrariis contrarius , meaning opposite by opposite, and introduced contrasting stimuli to bring about balance in the physical and mental domains. An example would be consuming a cold drink while in a warm bath.

1.4.3. The Middle Ages – 500 AD to 1500 AD

The progress made during the time of the Greeks and Romans was quickly reversed during the Middle Ages with the increase in power of the Church and the fall of the Roman Empire. Mental illness was yet again explained as possession by the Devil and methods such as exorcism, flogging, prayer, the touching of relics, chanting, visiting holy sites, and holy water were used to rid the person of demonic influence. In extreme cases, the afflicted were exposed to confinement, beatings, and even execution. Scientific and medical explanations, such as those proposed by Hippocrates, were discarded.

Group hysteria, or mass madness , was also seen when large numbers of people displayed similar symptoms and false beliefs. This included the belief that one was possessed by wolves or other animals and imitated their behavior, called lycanthropy , and a mania in which large numbers of people had an uncontrollable desire to dance and jump, called tarantism . The latter was believed to have been caused by the bite of the wolf spider, now called the tarantula, and spread quickly from Italy to Germany and other parts of Europe where it was called Saint Vitus’s dance .

Perhaps the return to supernatural explanations during the Middle Ages makes sense given events of the time. The black death (bubonic plague) killed up to a third, or according to other estimates almost half, of the population. Famine, war, social oppression, and pestilence were also factors. The constant presence of death led to an epidemic of depression and fear. Near the end of the Middle Ages, mystical explanations for mental illness began to lose favor, and government officials regained some of their lost power over nonreligious activities. Science and medicine were again called upon to explain psychopathology.

1.4.4. The Renaissance – 14th to 16th centuries

The most noteworthy development in the realm of philosophy during the Renaissance was the rise of humanism , or the worldview that emphasizes human welfare and the uniqueness of the individual. This perspective helped continue the decline of supernatural views of mental illness. In the mid to late 1500s, German physician Johann Weyer (1515-1588) published his book, On the Deceits of the Demons, that rebutted the Church’s witch-hunting handbook, the Malleus Maleficarum , and argued that many accused of being witches and subsequently imprisoned, tortured, and/or burned at the stake, were mentally disturbed and not possessed by demons or the Devil himself. He believed that like the body, the mind was susceptible to illness. Not surprisingly, the book was vehemently protested and banned by the Church. It should be noted that these types of acts occurred not only in Europe, but also in the United States. The most famous example, the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, resulted in more than 200 people accused of practicing witchcraft and 20 deaths.

The number of asylums , or places of refuge for the mentally ill where they could receive care, began to rise during the 16th century as the government realized there were far too many people afflicted with mental illness to be left in private homes. Hospitals and monasteries were converted into asylums. Though the intent was benign in the beginning, as the facilities overcrowded, the patients came to be treated more like animals than people. In 1547, the Bethlem Hospital opened in London with the sole purpose of confining those with mental disorders. Patients were chained up, placed on public display, and often heard crying out in pain. The asylum became a tourist attraction, with sightseers paying a penny to view the more violent patients, and soon was called “Bedlam” by local people; a term that today means “a state of uproar and confusion” (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bedlam).

1.4.5. Reform Movement – 18th to 19th centuries

The rise of the moral treatment movement occurred in Europe in the late 18th century and then in the United States in the early 19th century. The earliest proponent was Francis Pinel (1745-1826), the superintendent of la Bicetre, a hospital for mentally ill men in Paris. Pinel stressed respectful treatment and moral guidance for the mentally ill while considering their individual, social, and occupational needs. Arguing that the mentally ill were sick people, Pinel ordered that chains be removed, outside exercise be allowed, sunny and well-ventilated rooms replace dungeons, and patients be extended kindness and support. This approach led to considerable improvement for many of the patients, so much so, that several were released.

Following Pinel’s lead, William Tuke (1732-1822), a Quaker tea merchant, established a pleasant rural estate called the York Retreat. The Quakers believed that all people should be accepted for who they are and treated kindly. At the retreat, patients could work, rest, talk out their problems, and pray (Raad & Makari, 2010). The work of Tuke and others led to the passage of the Country Asylums Act of 1845, which required that every county provide asylum to the mentally ill. This sentiment extended to English colonies such as Canada, India, Australia, and the West Indies as word of the maltreatment of patients at a facility in Kingston, Jamaica spread, leading to an audit of colonial facilities and their policies.

Reform in the United States started with the figure largely considered to be the father of American psychiatry, Benjamin Rush (1745-1813). Rush advocated for the humane treatment of the mentally ill, showing them respect, and even giving them small gifts from time to time. Despite this, his practice included treatments such as bloodletting and purgatives, the invention of the “tranquilizing chair,” and reliance on astrology, showing that even he could not escape from the beliefs of the time.

Due to the rise of the moral treatment movement in both Europe and the United States, asylums became habitable places where those afflicted with mental illness could recover. Regrettably, its success was responsible for its decline. The number of mental hospitals greatly increased, leading to staffing shortages and a lack of funds to support them. Though treating patients humanely was a noble endeavor, it did not work for some patients and other treatments were needed, though they had not been developed yet. Staff recognized that the approach worked best when the facility had 200 or fewer patients, but waves of immigrants arriving in the U.S. after the Civil War overwhelmed the facilities, and patient counts soared to 1,000 or more. Prejudice against the new arrivals led to discriminatory practices in which immigrants were not afforded the same moral treatments as native citizens, even when the resources were available to treat them.

The moral treatment movement also fell due to the rise of the mental hygiene movement , which focused on the physical well-being of patients. Its leading proponent in the United States was Dorothea Dix (1802-1887), a New Englander who observed the deplorable conditions suffered by the mentally ill while teaching Sunday school to female prisoners. Over the next 40 years, from 1841 to 1881, she motivated people and state legislators to do something about this injustice and raised millions of dollars to build over 30 more appropriate mental hospitals and improve others. Her efforts even extended beyond the U.S. to Canada and Scotland.

Finally, in 1908 Clifford Beers (1876-1943) published his book, A Mind that Found Itself , in which he described his struggle with bipolar disorder and the “cruel and inhumane treatment people with mental illnesses received. He witnessed and experienced horrific abuse at the hands of his caretakers. At one point during his institutionalization, he was placed in a straitjacket for 21 consecutive nights” ( https://www.mhanational.org/our-history ). His story aroused sympathy from the public and led him to found the National Committee for Mental Hygiene, known today as Mental Health America, which provides education about mental illness and the need to treat these people with dignity. Today, MHA has over 200 affiliates in 41 states and employs 6,500 affiliate staff and over 10,000 volunteers.

“In the early 1950s, Mental Health America issued a call to asylums across the country for their discarded chains and shackles. On April 13, 1953, at the McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore, Md., Mental Health America melted down these inhumane bindings and recast them into a sign of hope: the Mental Health Bell.

Now the symbol of Mental Health America, the 300-pound Bell serves as a powerful reminder that the invisible chains of misunderstanding and discrimination continue to bind people with mental illnesses. Today, the Mental Health Bell rings out hope for improving mental health and achieving victory over mental illnesses.”

For more information on MHA, please visit: https://www.mhanational.org/

1.4.6. 20th – 21st Centuries

The decline of the moral treatment approach in the late 19th century led to the rise of two competing perspectives – the biological or somatogenic perspective and the psychological or psychogenic perspective.

1.4.6.1. Biological or Somatogenic Perspective. Recall that Greek physicians Hippocrates and Galen said that mental disorders were akin to physical disorders and had natural causes. Though the idea fell into oblivion for several centuries, it re-emerged in the late 19th century for two reasons. First, German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin (1856-1926) discovered that symptoms occurred regularly in clusters, which he called syndromes . These syndromes represented a unique mental disorder with a distinct cause, course, and prognosis. In 1883 he published his textbook, Compendium der Psychiatrie (Textbook of Psychiatry), and described a system for classifying mental disorders that became the basis of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) that is currently in its 5th edition Text Revision (published in 2022).

Secondly, in 1825, the behavioral and cognitive symptoms of advanced syphilis were identified to include a belief that everyone is plotting against you or that you are God (a delusion of grandeur), and were termed general paresis by French physician A.L.J. Bayle. In 1897, Viennese psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebbing injected patients suffering from general paresis with matter from syphilis spores and noted that none of the patients developed symptoms of syphilis, indicating they must have been previously exposed and were now immune. This led to the conclusion that syphilis was the cause of the general paresis. In 1906, August von Wassermann developed a blood test for syphilis, and in 1917 a cure was found. Julius von Wagner-Jauregg noticed that patients with general paresis who contracted malaria recovered from their symptoms. To test this hypothesis, he injected nine patients with blood from a soldier afflicted with malaria. Three of the patients fully recovered while three others showed great improvement in their paretic symptoms. The high fever caused by malaria burned out the syphilis bacteria. Hospitals in the United States began incorporating this new cure for paresis into their treatment approach by 1925.

Also noteworthy was the work of American psychiatrist John P. Grey. Appointed as superintendent of the Utica State Hospital in New York, Grey asserted that insanity always had a physical cause. As such, the mentally ill should be seen as physically ill and treated with rest, proper room temperature and ventilation, and a nutritive diet.

The 1930s also saw the use of electric shock as a treatment method, which was stumbled upon accidentally by Benjamin Franklin while experimenting with electricity in the early 18th century. He noticed that after suffering a severe shock his memories had changed, and in published work, he suggested physicians study electric shock as a treatment for melancholia.

1.4.6.2. Psychological or Psychogenic Perspective. The psychological or psychogenic perspective states that emotional or psychological factors are the cause of mental disorders and represented a challenge to the biological perspective. This perspective had a long history but did not gain favor until the work of Viennese physician Franz Anton Mesmer (1734-1815). Influenced heavily by Newton’s theory of gravity, he believed that the planets also affected the human body through the force of animal magnetism and that all people had a universal magnetic fluid that determined how healthy they were. He demonstrated the usefulness of his approach when he cured Franzl Oesterline, a 27-year-old woman suffering from what he described as a convulsive malady. Mesmer used a magnet to disrupt the gravitational tides that were affecting his patient and produced a sensation of the magnetic fluid draining from her body. This procedure removed the illness from her body and provided a near-instantaneous recovery. In reality, the patient was placed in a trancelike state which made her highly suggestible. With other patients, Mesmer would have them sit in a darkened room filled with soothing music, into which he would enter dressed in a colorful robe and pass from person to person touching the afflicted area of their body with his hand or a rod/wand. He successfully cured deafness, paralysis, loss of bodily feeling, convulsions, menstrual difficulties, and blindness.

His approach gained him celebrity status as he demonstrated it at the courts of English nobility. However, the medical community was hardly impressed. A royal commission was formed to investigate his technique but could not find any proof for his theory of animal magnetism. Though he was able to cure patients when they touched his “magnetized” tree, the result was the same when “non-magnetized” trees were touched. As such, Mesmer was deemed a charlatan and forced to leave Paris. His technique was called mesmerism , better known today as hypnosis.

The psychological perspective gained popularity after two physicians practicing in the city of Nancy in France discovered that they could induce the symptoms of hysteria in perfectly healthy patients through hypnosis and then remove the symptoms in the same way. The work of Hippolyte-Marie Bernheim (1840-1919) and Ambroise-Auguste Liebault (1823-1904) came to be part of what was called the Nancy School and showed that hysteria was nothing more than a form of self-hypnosis. In Paris, this view was challenged by Jean Charcot (1825-1893), who stated that hysteria was caused by degenerative brain changes, reflecting the biological perspective. He was proven wrong and eventually turned to their way of thinking.

The use of hypnosis to treat hysteria was also carried out by fellow Frenchman Pierre Janet (1859-1947), and student of Charcot, who believed that hysteria had psychological, not biological causes. Namely, these included unconscious forces, fixed ideas, and memory impairments. In Vienna, Josef Breuer (1842-1925) induced hypnosis and had patients speak freely about past events that upset them. Upon waking, he discovered that patients sometimes were free of their symptoms of hysteria. Success was even greater when patients not only recalled forgotten memories but also relived them emotionally. He called this the cathartic method , and our use of the word catharsis today indicates a purging or release, in this case, of pent-up emotion.

By the end of the 19th century, it had become evident that mental disorders were caused by a combination of biological and psychological factors, and the investigation of how they develop began. Sigmund Freud’s development of psychoanalysis followed on the heels of the work of Bruner, and others who came before him.

1.4.7. Current Views/Trends

1.4.7.1. Mental illness today. An article published by the Harvard Medical School in March 2014 called “The Prevalence and Treatment of Mental Illness Today” presented the results of the National Comorbidity Study Replication of 2001-2003, which included a sample of more than 9,000 adults. The results showed that nearly 46% of the participants had a psychiatric disorder at some time in their lives. The most commonly reported disorders were:

Major depression – 17%
Alcohol abuse – 13%
Social anxiety disorder – 12%
Conduct disorder – 9.5%

Also of interest was that women were more likely to have had anxiety and mood disorders while men showed higher rates of impulse control disorders. Comorbid anxiety and mood disorders were common, and 28% reported having more than one co-occurring disorder (Kessler, Berglund, et al., 2005; Kessler, Chiu, et al., 2005; Kessler, Demler, et al., 2005).

About 80% of the sample reported seeking treatment for their disorder, but with as much as a 10-year gap after symptoms first appeared. Women were more likely than men to seek help while whites were more likely than African and Hispanic Americans (Wang, Berglund, et al., 2005; Wang, Lane, et al., 2005). Care was sought primarily from family doctors, nurses, and other general practitioners (23%), followed by social workers and psychologists (16%), psychiatrists (12%), counselors or spiritual advisers (8%), and complementary and alternative medicine providers (CAMs; 7%).

In terms of the quality of the care, the article states:

Most of this treatment was inadequate, at least by the standards applied in the survey. The researchers defined minimum adequacy as a suitable medication at a suitable dose for two months, along with at least four visits to a physician; or else eight visits to any licensed mental health professional. By that definition, only 33% of people with a psychiatric disorder were treated adequately, and only 13% of those who saw general medical practitioners.

In comparison to the original study conducted from 1991-1992, the use of mental health services has increased over 50% during this decade. This may be attributed to treatment becoming more widespread and increased attempts to educate the public about mental illness. Stigma, discussed in Section 1.3, has reduced over time, diagnosis is more effective, community outreach programs have increased, and most importantly, general practitioners have been more willing to prescribe psychoactive medications which themselves are more readily available now. The article concludes, “Survey researchers also suggest that we need more outreach and voluntary screening, more education about mental illness for the public and physicians, and more effort to treat substance abuse and impulse control disorders.” We will explore several of these issues in the remainder of this section, including the use of psychiatric drugs and deinstitutionalization, managed health care, private psychotherapy, positive psychology and prevention science, multicultural psychology, and prescription rights for psychologists.

1.4.7.2. Use of psychiatric drugs and deinstitutionalization . Beginning in the 1950s, psychiatric or psychotropic drugs were used for the treatment of mental illness and made an immediate impact. Though drugs alone cannot cure mental illness, they can improve symptoms and increase the effectiveness of treatments such as psychotherapy. Classes of psychiatric drugs include anti-depressants used to treat depression and anxiety, mood-stabilizing medications to treat bipolar disorder, anti-psychotic drugs to treat schizophrenia, and anti-anxiety drugs to treat generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder

Frank (2006) found that by 1996, psychotropic drugs were used in 77% of mental health cases and spending on these drugs grew from $2.8 billion in 1987 to about $18 billion in 2001 (Coffey et al., 2000; Mark et al., 2005), representing over a sixfold increase. The largest classes of psychotropic drugs are anti-psychotics and anti-depressants, followed closely by anti-anxiety medications. Frank, Conti, and Goldman (2005) point out, “The expansion of insurance coverage for prescription drugs, the introduction and diffusion of managed behavioral health care techniques, and the conduct of the pharmaceutical industry in promoting their products all have influenced how psychotropic drugs are used and how much is spent on them.” Is it possible then that we are overprescribing these mediations? Davey (2014) provides ten reasons why this may be so, including leading suffers from believing that recovery is in their hands but instead in the hands of their doctors; increased risk of relapse; drug companies causing the “medicalization of perfectly normal emotional processes, such as bereavement” to ensure their survival; side effects; and a failure to change the way the person thinks or the socioeconomic environments that may be the cause of the disorder. For more on this article, please see: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/why-we-worry/201401/overprescribing-drugs-treat-mental-health-problems . Smith (2012) echoed similar sentiments in an article on inappropriate prescribing. He cites the approval of Prozac by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1987 as when the issue began and the overmedication/overdiagnosis of children with ADHD as a more recent example.

A result of the use of psychiatric drugs was deinstitutionalization , or the release of patients from mental health facilities. This shifted resources from inpatient to outpatient care and placed the spotlight back on the biological or somatogenic perspective. When people with severe mental illness do need inpatient care, it is typically in the form of short-term hospitalization.

1.4.7.3. Managed health care. Managed health care is a term used to describe a type of health insurance in which the insurance company determines the cost of services, possible providers, and the number of visits a subscriber can have within a year. This is regulated through contracts with providers and medical facilities. The plans pay the providers directly, so subscribers do not have to pay out-of-pocket or complete claim forms, though most require co-pays paid directly to the provider at the time of service. Exactly how much the plan costs depends on how flexible the subscriber wants it to be; the more flexibility, the higher the cost. Managed health care takes three forms:

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) – Typically only pay for care within the network. The subscriber chooses a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates most of their care. The PCP refers the subscriber to specialists or other health care providers as is necessary. This is the most restrictive option.
Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) – Usually pay more if the subscriber obtains care within the network, but if care outside the network is sought, they cover part of the cost.
Point of Service (POS) – These plans provide the most flexibility and allow the subscriber to choose between an HMO or a PPO each time care is needed.

Regarding the treatment needed for mental illness, managed care programs regulate the pre-approval of treatment via referrals from the PCP, determine which mental health providers can be seen, and oversee which conditions can be treated and what type of treatment can be delivered. This system was developed in the 1980s to combat the rising cost of mental health care and took responsibility away from single practitioners or small groups who could charge what they felt was appropriate. The actual impact of managed care on mental health services is still questionable at best.

1.4.7.4. Multicultural psychology. As our society becomes increasingly diverse, medical practitioners and psychologists alike must take into account the patient’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic (SES) status, and culture and how these factors shape the individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Additionally, we need to understand how the various groups, whether defined by race, culture, or gender, differ from one another. This approach is called multicultural psychology .

In August 2002, the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Council of Representatives put forth six guidelines based on the understanding that “race and ethnicity can impact psychological practice and interventions at all levels” and the need for respect and inclusiveness. They further state, “psychologists are in a position to provide leadership as agents of prosocial change, advocacy, and social justice, thereby promoting societal understanding, affirmation, and appreciation of multiculturalism against the damaging effects of individual, institutional, and societal racism, prejudice, and all forms of oppression based on stereotyping and discrimination.” The guidelines from the 2002 document are as follows:

“Guideline #1: Psychologists are encouraged to recognize that, as cultural beings, they may hold attitudes and beliefs that can detrimentally influence their perceptions of and interactions with individuals who are ethnically and racially different from themselves.
Guideline #2: Psychologists are encouraged to recognize the importance of multicultural sensitivity/responsiveness, knowledge, and understanding about ethnically and racially different individuals.
Guideline #3: As educators, psychologists are encouraged to employ the constructs of multiculturalism and diversity in psychological education.
Guideline #4: Culturally sensitive psychological researchers are encouraged to recognize the importance of conducting culture–centered and ethical psychological research among persons from ethnic, linguistic, and racial minority backgrounds.
Guideline #5: Psychologists strive to apply culturally-appropriate skills in clinical and other applied psychological practices.
Guideline #6: Psychologists are encouraged to use organizational change processes to support culturally informed organizational (policy) development and practices.”

Source: https://apa.org/pi/oema/resources/policy/multicultural-guidelines.aspx

This type of sensitivity training is vital because bias based on ethnicity, race, and culture has been found in the diagnosis and treatment of autism (Harrison et al., 2017; Burkett, 2015), borderline personality disorder (Jani et al., 2016), and schizophrenia (Neighbors et al., 2003; Minsky et al., 2003). Despite these findings, Schwartz and Blankenship (2014) state, “It should also be noted that although clear evidence supports a longstanding trend in differential diagnoses according to consumer race, this trend does not imply that one race ( e.g ., African Americans) actually demonstrate more severe symptoms or higher prevalence rates of psychosis compared with other races ( e.g ., Euro-Americans). Because clinicians are the diagnosticians and misinterpretation, bias or other factors may play a role in this trend caution should be used when making inferences about actual rates of psychosis among ethnic minority persons.” Additionally, white middle-class help seekers were offered appointments with psychotherapists almost three times as often as their black working-class counterparts. Women were offered an appointment time in their preferred time range more than men were, though average appointment offer rates were similar between genders (Kugelmass, 2016). These findings collectively show that though we are becoming more culturally sensitive, we have a lot more work to do.

1.4.7.5. Prescription rights for psychologists . To reduce inappropriate prescribing as described in 1.4.7.2, it has been proposed to allow appropriately trained psychologists the right to prescribe. Psychologists are more likely to utilize both therapy and medication, and so can make the best choice for their patient. The right has already been granted in New Mexico, Louisiana, Guam, the military, the Indian Health Services, and the U.S. Public Health Services. Measures in other states “have been opposed by the American Medical Association and American Psychiatric Association over concerns that inadequate training of psychologists could jeopardize patient safety. Supporters of prescriptive authority for psychologists are quick to point out that there is no evidence to support these concerns” (Smith, 2012).

1.4.7.6. Prevention science. As a society, we used to wait for a mental or physical health issue to emerge, then scramble to treat it. More recently, medicine and science has taken a prevention stance, identifying the factors that cause specific mental health issues and implementing interventions to stop them from happening, or at least minimize their deleterious effects. Our focus has shifted from individuals to the population. Mental health promotion programs have been instituted with success in schools (Shoshani & Steinmetz, 2014; Weare & Nind, 2011; Berkowitz & Beer, 2007), in the workplace (Czabała, Charzyńska, & Mroziak, B., 2011), with undergraduate and graduate students (Conley et al., 2017; Bettis et al., 2016), in relation to bullying (Bradshaw, 2015), and with the elderly (Forsman et al., 2011). Many researchers believe it is the ideal time to move from knowledge to action and to expand public mental health initiatives (Wahlbeck, 2015). The growth of positive psychology in the late 1990s has further propelled this movement forward. For more on positive psychology, please see Section 1.1.1.

Some of the earliest views of mental illness saw it as the work of evil spirts, demons, gods, or witches who took control of the person, and in the Middle Ages it was seen as possession by the Devil and methods such as exorcism, flogging, prayer, the touching of relics, chanting, visiting holy sites, and holy water were used to rid the person of demonic influence.
During the Renaissance, humanism was on the rise which emphasized human welfare and the uniqueness of the individual and led to an increase in the number of asylums as places of refuge for the mentally ill.
The 18th to 19th centuries saw the rise of the moral treatment movement followed by the mental hygiene movement.
The psychological or psychogenic perspective states that emotional or psychological factors are the cause of mental disorders and represented a challenge to the biological perspective which said that mental disorders were akin to physical disorders and had natural causes.
Psychiatric or psychotropic drugs used to treat mental illness became popular beginning in the 1950s and led to deinstitutionalization or a shift from inpatient to outpatient care.

Section 1.4 Review Questions

How has mental illness been viewed across time?
Contrast the moral treatment and mental hygiene movements.
Contrast the biological or somatogenic perspective with that of the psychological or psychogenic perspective.
Discuss contemporary trends in relation to the use of drugs to treat mental illness, deinstitutionalization, managed health care, multicultural psychology, prescription rights for psychologists, and prevention science.
Define the scientific method.
Outline and describe the steps of the scientific method, defining all key terms.
Identify and clarify the importance of the three cardinal features of science.
List the five main research methods used in psychology.
Describe observational research, listing its advantages and disadvantages.
Describe case study research, listing its advantages and disadvantages.
Describe survey research, listing its advantages and disadvantages.
Describe correlational research, listing its advantages and disadvantages.
Describe experimental research, listing its advantages and disadvantages.
State the utility and need for multimethod research.

1.5.1. The Scientific Method

Psychology is the “scientific study of behavior and mental processes.” We will spend quite a lot of time on the behavior and mental processes part throughout this book and in relation to mental disorders. Still, before we proceed, it is prudent to further elaborate on what makes psychology scientific. It is safe to say that most people outside of our discipline or a sister science would be surprised to learn that psychology utilizes the scientific method at all. That may be even truer of clinical psychology, especially in light of the plethora of self-help books found at any bookstore. But yes, the treatment methods used by mental health professionals are based on empirical research and the scientific method.

As a starting point, we should expand on what the scientific method is.

The keyword here is systematic , meaning there is a set way to use it. What is that way? Well, depending on what source you look at, it can include a varying number of steps. I like to use the following:

Table 1.1: The Steps of the Scientific Method

Science has at its root three cardinal features that we will see play out time and time again throughout this book. They are:

Observation – To know about the world around us, we have to be able to see it firsthand. When a mental disorder afflicts an individual, we can see it through their overt behavior. An individual with depression may withdraw from activities he/she enjoys, those with social anxiety disorder will avoid social situations, people with schizophrenia may express concern over being watched by the government, and individuals with dependent personality disorder may leave major decisions to trusted companions. In these examples and numerous others, the behaviors that lead us to a diagnosis of a specific disorder can easily be observed by the clinician, the patient, and/or family and friends.
Experimentation – To be able to make causal or cause and effect statements, we must isolate variables. We must manipulate one variable and see the effect of doing so on another variable. Let’s say we want to know if a new treatment for bipolar disorder is as effective as existing treatments, or more importantly, better. We could design a study with three groups of bipolar patients. One group would receive no treatment and serve as a control group. A second group would receive an existing and proven treatment and would also be considered a control group. Finally, the third group would receive the new treatment and be the experimental group. What we are manipulating is what treatment the groups get – no treatment, the older treatment, and the newer treatment. The first two groups serve as controls since we already know what to expect from their results. There should be no change in bipolar disorder symptoms in the no-treatment group, a general reduction in symptoms for the older treatment group, and the same or better performance for the newer treatment group. As long as patients in the newer treatment group do not perform worse than their older treatment counterparts, we can say the new drug is a success. You might wonder why we would get excited about the performance of the new drug being the same as the old drug. Does it really offer any added benefit? In terms of a reduction of symptoms, maybe not, but it could cost less money than the older drug and that would be of value to patients.
Measurement – How do we know that the new drug has worked? Simply, we can measure the person’s bipolar disorder symptoms before any treatment was implemented, and then again once the treatment has run its course. This pre-post test design is typical in drug studies.

1.5.2. Research Methods

Step 3 called on the scientist to test his or her hypothesis. Psychology as a discipline uses five main research designs. They are:

1.5.2.1. Naturalistic and laboratory observation . In terms of naturalistic observation , the scientist studies human or animal behavior in its natural environment, which could include the home, school, or a forest. The researcher counts, measures, and rates behavior in a systematic way and, at times, uses multiple judges to ensure accuracy in how the behavior is being measured. The advantage of this method is that you see behavior as it happens, and the experimenter does not taint the data. The disadvantage is that it could take a long time for the behavior to occur, and if the researcher is detected, then this may influence the behavior of those being observed.

Laboratory observation involves observing people or animals in a laboratory setting. The researcher might want to know more about parent-child interactions, and so, brings a mother and her child into the lab to engage in preplanned tasks such as playing with toys, eating a meal, or the mother leaving the room for a short time. The advantage of this method over the naturalistic method is that the experimenter can use sophisticated equipment to record the session and examine it later. The problem is that since the subjects know the experimenter is watching them, their behavior could become artificial. Clinical observation is a commonly employed research method to study psychopathology; we will talk about it more throughout this book.

1.5.2.2. Case studies. Psychology can also utilize a detailed description of one person or a small group based on careful observation. This was the approach the founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, took to develop his theories. The advantage of this method is that you arrive at a detailed description of the investigated behavior, but the disadvantage is that the findings may be unrepresentative of the larger population, and thus, lacking generalizability . Again, bear in mind that you are studying one person or a tiny group. Can you possibly make conclusions about all people from just one person, or even five or ten? The other issue is that the case study is subject to researcher bias in terms of what is included in the final narrative and what is left out. Despite these limitations, case studies can lead us to novel ideas about the cause of abnormal behavior and help us to study unusual conditions that occur too infrequently to analyze with large sample sizes and in a systematic way.

1.5.2.3. Surveys/Self-Report data. This is a questionnaire consisting of at least one scale with some questions used to assess a psychological construct of interest such as parenting style, depression, locus of control, or sensation-seeking behavior. It may be administered by paper and pencil or computer. Surveys allow for the collection of large amounts of data quickly, but the actual survey could be tedious for the participant and social desirability , when a participant answers questions dishonestly so that they are seen in a more favorable light, could be an issue. For instance, if you are asking high school students about their sexual activity, they may not give genuine answers for fear that their parents will find out. You could alternatively gather this information via an interview in a structured or unstructured fashion.

1.5.2.4. Correlational research. This research method examines the relationship between two variables or two groups of variables. A numerical measure of the strength of this relationship is derived, called the correlation coefficient . It can range from -1.00, a perfect inverse relationship in which one variable goes up as the other goes down, to 0 indicating no relationship at all, to +1.00 or a perfect relationship in which as one variable goes up or down so does the other. In terms of a negative correlation, we might say that as a parent becomes more rigid, controlling, and cold, the attachment of the child to parent goes down. In contrast, as a parent becomes warmer, more loving, and provides structure, the child becomes more attached. The advantage of correlational research is that you can correlate anything. The disadvantage is that you can correlate anything, including variables that do not have any relationship with one another. Yes, this is both an advantage and a disadvantage. For instance, we might correlate instances of making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with someone we are attracted to sitting near us at lunch. Are the two related? Not likely, unless you make a really good PB&J, but then the person is probably only interested in you for food and not companionship. The main issue here is that correlation does not allow you to make a causal statement.

A special form of correlational research is the epidemiological study in which the prevalence and incidence of a disorder in a specific population are measured (See Section 1.2 for definitions).

1.5.2.5. Experiments. This is a controlled test of a hypothesis in which a researcher manipulates one variable and measures its effect on another variable. The manipulated variable is called the independent variable (IV) , and the one that is measured is called the dependent variable (DV) . In the example under Experimentation in Section 1.5.1, the treatment for bipolar disorder was the IV, while the actual intensity or number of symptoms serve as the DV. A common feature of experiments is a control group that does not receive the treatment or is not manipulated and an experimental group that does receive the treatment or manipulation. If the experiment includes random assignment , participants have an equal chance of being placed in the control or experimental group. The control group allows the researcher (or teacher) to make a comparison to the experimental group and make a causal statement possible, and stronger. In our experiment, the new treatment should show a marked reduction in the intensity of bipolar symptoms compared to the group receiving no treatment, and perform either at the same level as, or better than, the older treatment. This would be the initial hypothesis made before starting the experiment.

In a drug study, to ensure the participants’ expectations do not affect the final results by giving the researcher what he/she is looking for (in our example, symptoms improve whether the participant is receiving treatment or not), we might use what is called a placebo , or a sugar pill made to look exactly like the pill given to the experimental group. This way, participants all are given something, but cannot figure out what exactly it is. You might say this keeps them honest and allows the results to speak for themselves.

Finally, the study of mental illness does not always afford us a large sample of participants to study, so we have to focus on one individual using a single-subject experimental design . This differs from a case study in the sheer number of strategies available to reduce potential confounding variables , or variables not originally part of the research design but contribute to the results in a meaningful way. One type of single-subject experimental design is the reversal or ABAB design . Kuttler, Myles, and Carson (1998) used social stories to reduce tantrum behavior in two social environments in a 12-year old student diagnosed with autism, Fragile-X syndrome, and intermittent explosive disorder. Using an ABAB design, they found that precursors to tantrum behavior decreased when the social stories were available (B) and increased when the intervention was withdrawn (A). A more recent study (Balakrishnan & Alias, 2017) also established the utility of social stories as a social learning tool for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using an ABAB design. During the baseline phase (A), the four student participants were observed, and data recorded on an observation form. During the treatment phase (B), they listened to the social story and data was recorded in the same manner. Upon completion of the first B, the students returned to A, which was followed one more time by B and the reading of the social story. Once the second treatment phase ended, the participation was monitored again to obtain the outcome. All students showed improvement during the treatment phases in terms of the number of positive peer interactions, but the number of interactions reduced in the absence of social stories. From this, the researchers concluded that the social story led to the increase in positive peer interactions of children with ASD.

1.5.2.6. Multi-method research. As you have seen above, no single method alone is perfect. All have strengths and limitations. As such, for the psychologist to provide the most precise picture of what is affecting behavior or mental processes, several of these approaches are typically employed at different stages of the research study. This is called multi-method research.

The scientific method is a systematic method for gathering knowledge about the world around us.
A systematic explanation of a phenomenon is a theory and our specific, testable prediction is the hypothesis .
Replication is when we repeat the study to confirm its results.
Psychology’s five main research designs are observation, case studies, surveys, correlation, and experimentation.
No single research method alone is perfect – all have strengths and limitations.

Section 1.5 Review Questions

What is the scientific method and what steps make it up?
Differentiate theory and hypothesis.
What are the three cardinal features of science and how do they relate to the study of mental disorders?
What are the five main research designs used by psychologists? Define each and then state its strengths and limitations.
What is the advantage of multi-method research?
Identify and describe the various types of mental health professionals.
Clarify what it means to communicate findings.
Identify professional societies in clinical psychology.
Identify publications in clinical psychology.

1.6.1. Types of Professionals

There are many types of mental health professionals that people may seek out for assistance. They include:

Table 1.2: Types of Mental Health Professionals

For more information on types of mental health professionals, please visit:

https://www.mhanational.org/types-mental-health-professionals

1.6.2. Professional Societies and Journals

One of the functions of science is to communicate findings. Testing hypotheses, developing sound methodology, accurately analyzing data, and drawing sound conclusions are important, but you must tell others what you have done too. This is accomplished by joining professional societies and submitting articles to peer-reviewed journals. Below are some of the organizations and journals relevant to applied behavior analysis.

1.6.2.1. Professional Societies

Website – https://div12.org/
Mission Statement – “The mission of the Society of Clinical Psychology is to represent the field of Clinical Psychology through encouragement and support of the integration of clinical psychological science and practice in education, research, application, advocacy and public policy, attending to the importance of diversity.”
Publications – Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice and the newsletter Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice(quarterly)
Other Information – Members and student affiliates may join one of eight sections such as clinical emergencies and crises, clinical psychology of women, assessment psychology, and clinical geropsychology
Website – https://www.clinicalchildpsychology.org/
Mission Statement – “Our mission is to serve children, adolescents and families with the best possible clinical care based on psychological science. SCCAP strives to integrate scientific and professional aspects of clinical child and adolescent psychology, in that it promotes scientific inquiry, training, and clinical practice related to serving children and their families.”
Publication – Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology
Website – https://www.aacpsy.org/
Mission Statement – The American Academy of Clinical Psychology seeks to “recognize and promote advanced competence within Professional Psychology,” “provide a professional community that encourages communication between and among Members and Fellows of the Academy,” “provide opportunities for advanced education in Professional Psychology,” and “expand awareness and availability of AACP Members and Fellows to the public through promotion and education.”
Publication – Bulletin of the American Academy of Clinical Psychology (newsletter)
Website – http://www.sscpweb.org/
Mission Statement – “ The Society for a Science of Clinical Psychology (SSCP) was established in 1966. Its purpose is to affirm and continue to promote the integration of the scientist and the practitioner in training, research, and applied endeavors. Its members represent a diversity of interests and theoretical orientations across clinical psychology. The common bond of the membership is a commitment to empirical research and the ideal that scientific principles should play a role in training, practice, and establishing public policy for health and mental health concerns. SSCP has organizational affiliations with both the American Psychological Association (Section III of Division 12) and the Association for Psychological Science.”
Other Information – Offers ten awards ranging from early career award, outstanding mentor award, outstanding student teacher award, and outstanding student clinician award.
Website – http://www.asch.net/
Mission Statement – “To provide and encourage education programs to further, in every ethical way, the knowledge, understanding, and application of hypnosis in health care; to encourage research and scientific publication in the field of hypnosis; to promote the further recognition and acceptance of hypnosis as an important tool in clinical health care and focus for scientific research; to cooperate with other professional societies that share mutual goals, ethics and interests; and to provide a professional community for those clinicians and researchers who use hypnosis in their work.”
Publication – American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
Other Information – Offers certification in clinical hypnosis

1.6.2.2. Professional Journals

Website – http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1468-2850
Published by – American Psychological Association, Division 12
Description – “ Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice presents cutting-edge developments in the science and practice of clinical psychology and related mental health fields by publishing scholarly articles, primarily involving narrative and systematic reviews as well as meta-analyses related to assessment, intervention, and service delivery.”
Website – https://www.clinicalchildpsychology.org/JCCAP
Published by – American Psychological Association, Division 53
Description – “It publishes original contributions on the following topics: (a) the development and evaluation of assessment and intervention techniques for use with clinical child and adolescent populations; (b) the development and maintenance of clinical child and adolescent problems; (c) cross-cultural and socio-demographic issues that have a clear bearing on clinical child and adolescent psychology in terms of theory, research, or practice; and (d) training and professional practice in clinical child and adolescent psychology, as well as child advocacy.”
Website – http://www.asch.net/Public/AmericanJournalofClinicalHypnosis.aspx
Published by – American Society of Clinical Hypnosis
Description – “The Journal publishes original scientific articles and clinical case reports on hypnosis, as well as reviews of related books and abstracts of the current hypnosis literature.”
Mental health professionals take on many different forms with different degree requirements, training, and the ability to prescribe mediations.
Telling others what we have done is achieved by joining professional societies and submitting articles to peer-reviewed journals.

Section 1.6 Review Questions

Provide a general overview of the types of mental professionals and the degree, training, and ability to prescribe medications that they have.
Briefly outline professional societies and journals related to clinical psychology and related disciplines.

Module Recap

In Module 1, we undertook a relatively lengthy discussion of what abnormal behavior is by first looking at what normal behavior is. What emerged was a general set of guidelines focused on mental illness as causing dysfunction, distress, deviance, and at times, being dangerous for the afflicted and others around him/her. Then we classified mental disorders in terms of their occurrence, cause, course, prognosis, and treatment. We acknowledged that mental illness is stigmatized in our society and provided a basis for why this occurs and what to do about it. This involved a discussion of the history of mental illness and current views and trends.

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The word scientific is key as psychology adheres to the strictest aspects of the scientific method and uses five main research designs in its investigation of mental disorders – observation, case study, surveys, correlational research, and experiments. Various mental health professionals use these designs, and societies and journals provide additional means to communicate findings or to be good consumers of psychological inquiry.

It is with this foundation in mind that we move to examine models of abnormality in Module 2.

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Anxiety Disorders (includes Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Phobias) by Nicole Warner, PhD Last Updated Feb 20, 2024 17 views this year
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80 fascinating psychology research questions for your next project

Last updated

15 February 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Psychology research is essential for furthering our understanding of human behavior and improving the diagnosis and treatment of psychological conditions.

When psychologists know more about how different social and cultural factors influence how humans act, think, and feel, they can recommend improvements to practices in areas such as education, sport, healthcare, and law enforcement.

Below, you will find 80 research question examples across 16 branches of psychology. First, though, let’s look at some tips to help you select a suitable research topic.

How to choose a good psychology research topic

Psychology has many branches that break down further into topics. Choosing a topic for your psychology research paper can be daunting because there are so many to choose from. It’s an important choice, as the topic you select will open up a range of questions to explore.

The tips below can help you find a psychology research topic that suits your skills and interests.

Tip #1: Select a topic that interests you

Passion and interest should fuel every research project. A topic that fascinates you will most likely interest others as well. Think about the questions you and others might have and decide on the issues that matter most. Draw on your own interests, but also keep your research topical and relevant to others.

Don’t limit yourself to a topic that you already know about. Instead, choose one that will make you want to know more and dig deeper. This will keep you motivated and excited about your research.

Tip #2: Choose a topic with a manageable scope

If your topic is too broad, you can get overwhelmed by the amount of information available and have trouble maintaining focus. On the other hand, you may find it difficult to find enough information if you choose a topic that is too narrow.

To determine if the topic is too broad or too narrow, start researching as early as possible. If you find there’s an overwhelming amount of research material, you’ll probably need to narrow the topic down. For example, instead of researching the general population, it might be easier to focus on a specific age group. Ask yourself what area of the general topic interests you most and focus on that.

If your scope is too narrow, try to generalize or focus on a larger related topic. Expand your search criteria or select additional databases for information. Consider if the topic is too new to have much information published on it as well.

Tip #3: Select a topic that will produce useful and relevant insights

Doing some preliminary research will reveal any existing research on the topic. If there is existing research, will you be able to produce new insights? You might need to focus on a different area or see if the existing research has limitations that you can overcome.

Bear in mind that finding new information from which to draw fresh insights may be impossible if your topic has been over-researched.

You’ll also need to consider whether your topic is relevant to current trends and needs. For example, researching psychology topics related to social media use may be highly relevant today.

80 psychology research topics and questions

Psychology is a broad subject with many branches and potential areas of study. Here are some of them:

Developmental

Personality

Experimental

Organizational

Educational

Neuropsychology

Controversial topics

Below we offer some suggestions on research topics and questions that can get you started. Keep in mind that these are not all-inclusive but should be personalized to fit the theme of your paper.

Social psychology research topics and questions

Social psychology has roots as far back as the 18th century. In simple terms, it’s the study of how behavior is influenced by the presence and behavior of others. It is the science of finding out who we are, who we think we are, and how our perceptions affect ourselves and others. It looks at personalities, relationships, and group behavior.

Here are some potential research questions and paper titles for this topic:

How does social media use impact perceptions of body image in male adolescents?

2. Is childhood bullying a risk factor for social anxiety in adults?

Is homophobia in individuals caused by genetic or environmental factors?

What is the most important psychological predictor of a person’s willingness to donate to charity?

Does a person’s height impact how other people perceive them? If so, how?

Cognitive psychology research questions

Cognitive psychology is the branch that focuses on the interactions of thinking, emotion, creativity, and problem-solving. It also explores the reasons humans think the way they do.

This topic involves exploring how people think by measuring intelligence, thoughts, and cognition.

Here are some research question ideas:

6. Is there a link between chronic stress and memory function?

7. Can certain kinds of music trigger memories in people with memory loss?

8. Do remote meetings impact the efficacy of team decision-making?

9. Do word games and puzzles slow cognitive decline in adults over the age of 80?

10. Does watching television impact a child’s reading ability?

Developmental psychology research questions

Developmental psychology is the study of how humans grow and change over their lifespan. It usually focuses on the social, emotional, and physical development of babies and children, though it can apply to people of all ages. Developmental psychology is important for understanding how we learn, mature, and adapt to changes.

Here are some questions that might inspire your research:

11. Does grief accelerate the aging process?

12. How do parent–child attachment patterns influence the development of emotion regulation in teenagers?

13. Does bilingualism affect cognitive decline in adults over the age of 70?

14. How does the transition to adulthood impact decision-making abilities

15. How does early exposure to music impact mental health and well-being in school-aged children?

Personality psychology research questions

Personality psychology studies personalities, how they develop, their structures, and the processes that define them. It looks at intelligence, disposition, moral beliefs, thoughts, and reactions.

The goal of this branch of psychology is to scientifically interpret the way personality patterns manifest into an individual’s behaviors. Here are some example research questions:

16. Nature vs. nurture: Which impacts personality development the most?

17. The role of genetics on personality: Does an adopted child take on their biological parents’ personality traits?

18. How do personality traits influence leadership styles and effectiveness in organizational settings?

19. Is there a relationship between an individual’s personality and mental health?

20. Can a chronic illness affect your personality?

Abnormal psychology research questions

As the name suggests, abnormal psychology is a branch that focuses on abnormal behavior and psychopathology (the scientific study of mental illness or disorders).

Abnormal behavior can be challenging to define. Who decides what is “normal”? As such, psychologists in this area focus on the level of distress that certain behaviors may cause, although this typically involves studying mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and phobias.

Here are some questions to consider:

21. How does technology impact the development of social anxiety disorder?

22. What are the factors behind the rising incidence of eating disorders in adolescents?

23. Are mindfulness-based interventions effective in the treatment of PTSD?

24. Is there a connection between depression and gambling addiction?

25. Can physical trauma cause psychopathy?

Clinical psychology research questions

Clinical psychology deals with assessing and treating mental illness or abnormal or psychiatric behaviors. It differs from abnormal psychology in that it focuses more on treatments and clinical aspects, while abnormal psychology is more behavioral focused.

This is a specialty area that provides care and treatment for complex mental health conditions. This can include treatment, not only for individuals but for couples, families, and other groups. Clinical psychology also supports communities, conducts research, and offers training to promote mental health. This category is very broad, so there are lots of topics to explore.

Below are some example research questions to consider:

26. Do criminals require more specific therapies or interventions?

27. How effective are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating mental health disorders?

28. Are there any disadvantages to humanistic therapy?

29. Can group therapy be more beneficial than one-on-one therapy sessions?

30. What are the factors to consider when selecting the right treatment plan for patients with anxiety?

Experimental psychology research questions

Experimental psychology deals with studies that can prove or disprove a hypothesis. Psychologists in this field use scientific methods to collect data on basic psychological processes such as memory, cognition, and learning. They use this data to test the whys and hows of behavior and how outside factors influence its creation.

Areas of interest in this branch relate to perception, memory, emotion, and sensation. The below are example questions that could inspire your own research:

31. Do male or female parents/carers have a more calming influence on children?

32. Will your preference for a genre of music increase the more you listen to it?

33. What are the psychological effects of posting on social media vs. not posting?

34. How is productivity affected by social connection?

35. Is cheating contagious?

Organizational psychology research questions

Organizational psychology studies human behavior in the workplace. It is most frequently used to evaluate an employee, group, or a company’s organizational dynamics. Researchers aim to isolate issues and identify solutions.

This area of study can be beneficial to both employees and employers since the goal is to improve the overall work environment and experience. Researchers apply psychological principles and findings to recommend improvements in performance, communication, job satisfaction, and safety.

Some potential research questions include the following:

36. How do different leadership styles affect employee morale?

37. Do longer lunch breaks boost employee productivity?

38. Is gender an antecedent to workplace stress?

39. What is the most effective way to promote work–life balance among employees?

40. How do different organizational structures impact the effectiveness of communication, decision-making, and productivity?

Forensic psychology research questions

Some questions to consider exploring in this branch of psychology are:

41. How does incarceration affect mental health?

42. Is childhood trauma a driver for criminal behavior during adulthood?

43. Are people with mental health conditions more likely to be victims of crimes?

44. What are the drivers of false memories, and how do they impact the justice system?

45. Is the media responsible for copycat crimes?

Educational psychology research questions

Educational psychology studies children in an educational setting. It covers topics like teaching methods, aptitude assessment, self-motivation, technology, and parental involvement.

Research in this field of psychology is vital for understanding and optimizing learning processes. It informs educators about cognitive development, learning styles, and effective teaching strategies.

Here are some example research questions:

46. Are different teaching styles more beneficial for children at different times of the day?

47. Can listening to classical music regularly increase a student’s test scores?

48. Is there a connection between sugar consumption and knowledge retention in students?

49. Does sleep duration and quality impact academic performance?

50. Does daily meditation at school influence students’ academic performance and mental health?

Sports psychology research question examples

Sport psychology aims to optimize physical performance and well-being in athletes by using cognitive and behavioral practices and interventions. Some methods include counseling, training, and clinical interventions.

Research in this area is important because it can improve team and individual performance, resilience, motivation, confidence, and overall well-being

Here are some research question ideas for you to consider:

51. How can a famous coach affect a team’s performance?

52. How can athletes control negative emotions in violent or high-contact sports?

53. How does using social media impact an athlete’s performance and well-being?

54. Can psychological interventions help with injury rehabilitation?

55. How can mindfulness practices boost sports performance?

Cultural psychology research question examples

The premise of this branch of psychology is that mind and culture are inseparable. In other words, people are shaped by their cultures, and their cultures are shaped by them. This can be a complex interaction.

Cultural psychology is vital as it explores how cultural context shapes individuals’ thoughts, behaviors, and perceptions. It provides insights into diverse perspectives, promoting cross-cultural understanding and reducing biases.

Here are some ideas that you might consider researching:

56. Are there cultural differences in how people perceive and deal with pain?

57. Are different cultures at increased risk of developing mental health conditions?

58. Are there cultural differences in coping strategies for stress?

59. Do our different cultures shape our personalities?

60. How does multi-generational culture influence family values and structure?

Health psychology research question examples

Health psychology is a crucial field of study. Understanding how psychological factors influence health behaviors, adherence to medical treatments, and overall wellness enables health experts to develop effective interventions and preventive measures, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Health psychology also aids in managing stress, promoting healthy behaviors, and optimizing mental health, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

Here are five ideas to inspire research in this field:

61. How can health psychology interventions improve lifestyle behaviors to prevent cardiovascular diseases?

62. What role do social norms play in vaping among adolescents?

63. What role do personality traits play in the development and management of chronic pain conditions?

64. How do cultural beliefs and attitudes influence health-seeking behaviors in diverse populations?

65. What are the psychological factors influencing the adherence to preventive health behaviors, such as vaccination and regular screenings?

Neuropsychology research paper question examples

Neuropsychology research explores how a person’s cognition and behavior are related to their brain and nervous system. Researchers aim to advance the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral and cognitive effects of neurological disorders.

Researchers may work with children facing learning or developmental challenges, or with adults with declining cognitive abilities. They may also focus on injuries or illnesses of the brain, such as traumatic brain injuries, to determine the effect on cognitive and behavioral functions.

Neuropsychology informs diagnosis and treatment strategies for conditions such as dementia, traumatic brain injuries, and psychiatric disorders. Understanding the neural basis of behavior enhances our ability to optimize cognitive functioning, rehabilitate people with brain injuries, and improve patient care.

Here are some example research questions to consider:

66. How do neurotransmitter imbalances in specific brain regions contribute to mood disorders such as depression?

67. How can a traumatic brain injury affect memory?

68. What neural processes underlie attention deficits in people with ADHD?

69. Do medications affect the brain differently after a traumatic brain injury?

70. What are the behavioral effects of prolonged brain swelling?

Psychology of religion research question examples

The psychology of religion is a field that studies the interplay between belief systems, spirituality, and mental well-being. It explores the application of the psychological methods and interpretive frameworks of religious traditions and how they relate to both religious and non-religious people.

Psychology of religion research contributes to a holistic understanding of human experiences. It fosters cultural competence and guides therapeutic approaches that respect diverse spiritual beliefs.

Here are some example research questions in this field:

71. What impact does a religious upbringing have on a child’s self-esteem?

72. How do religious beliefs shape decision-making and perceptions of morality?

73. What is the impact of religious indoctrination?

74. Is there correlation between religious and mindfulness practices?

75. How does religious affiliation impact attitudes towards mental health treatment and help-seeking behaviors?

Controversial topics in psychology research question examples

Some psychology topics don’t fit into any of the subcategories above, but they may still be worthwhile topics to consider. These topics are the ones that spark interest, conversation, debate, and disagreement. They are often inspired by current issues and assess the validity of older research.

Consider some of these research question examples:

76. How does the rise in on-screen violence impact behavior in adolescents.

77. Should access to social media platforms be restricted in children under the age of 12 to improve mental health?

78. Are prescription mental health medications over-prescribed in older adults? If so, what are the effects of this?

79. Cognitive biases in AI: what are the implications for decision-making?

80. What are the psychological and ethical implications of using virtual reality in exposure therapy for treating trauma-related conditions?

Inspiration for your next psychology research project

You can choose from a diverse range of research questions that intersect and overlap across various specialties.

From cognitive psychology to clinical studies, each inquiry contributes to a deeper understanding of the human mind and behavior. Importantly, the relevance of these questions transcends individual disciplines, as many findings offer insights applicable across multiple areas of study.

As health trends evolve and societal needs shift, new topics emerge, fueling continual exploration and discovery. Diving into this ever-changing and expanding area of study enables you to navigate the complexities of the human experience and pave the way for innovative solutions to the challenges of tomorrow.

Get started today

Go from raw data to valuable insights with a flexible research platform

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Latest articles

Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders - 3rd edition

(17 reviews)

Alexis Bridley, Washington State University

Lee W. Daffin Jr., Washington State University

Publisher: Washington State University

Language: English

Formats Available

Conditions of use.

Learn more about reviews.

Reviewed by Karen Magruder, Assistant Professor in Practice, University of Texas at Arlington on 3/8/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This book covers all the major categories of mental disorders as codified in the DSM-5-TR. Each category includes a summary of clinical presentation, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment. Additionally, it sets the stage by defining key terms and introducing the topic, including an exploration of what defines abnormal psychology, the impacts of mental illness, types of mental health professionals, and how mental disorders are classified.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

Overall, the information presented is consistent with evidence-based practice and current DSM-5-TR criteria. While I understand collapsing Depressive and Bipolar disorders into one Mood Disorders category, I would prefer to see headers stay consistent with DSM categories, to avoid confusing learners.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The DSM of course goes through updates periodically, and this volume effectively conveys the most relevant statistics, diagnostic criteria, and information. This book will need to be updated as data regarding prevalence and outcomes evolve, but it is set up well to do so.

Clarity rating: 5

Writing is clear and easy to follow. Terminology is consistently defined. Key takeaways are summarized in a clear and accessible manner, which helps reinforce important points.

Consistency rating: 5

There is a very consistent flow between chapters, with a predictable rhythm. Language is consistence between sections.

Modularity rating: 5

The authors do an excellent job of breaking complex topic into manageable chunks. Modules and subcomponents could easily be assigned for smaller readings. Effective use of headings and subheadings.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

This book is very organized. The table of contents provides a helpful overview, with clear and consistent organization within chapters.

Interface rating: 3

Links make navigating through the PDF simple and straightforward. Some minor issues with images detract from professionalism and clarity, such as having Shutterstock watermarks on copyrighted images. Some charts are difficult to read due to contrast issues, granularity, and small fonts. Due to the PDF format (online and xml formats not working), there may be some issues with alt text or screen readers?

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors were found.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

This volume includes case studies to apply some of the mental health issues to real practice settings. It also sets the stage by discussing stigma surrounding mental illness. More examples of cultural factors in diagnosis and treatment would strengthen this.

What a great resource for clinicians and students in a variety of helping professions!

Reviewed by Matthew Hand, Associate Professor, Texas Wesleyan University on 2/29/24

I was very pleased with both the depth and breadth provided by this textbook. It did a good job of covering the major disorders along with their disorder categories. It also did a good job of talking about treatment and important factors related to psychological disorders. I especially appreciated the authors including research findings when discussing various aspects of the disorders.

The most recent version of the textbook included disorders of childhood, which are not always included in books provided by publishers. This was a welcome addition.

Also, the book did a good job of starting the text with talking about the models of abnormality, the history of assessment/treatment, and assessment of psychological dysfunction. They were comprehensive in the way they approached these topics.

Overall, I was pretty happy with the comprehensiveness of the text.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content in the book accurately conveyed what it's supposed to cover. Descriptions of psychological disorders and the disorder categories were accurate and the authors did a good job of citing relevant research that would provide more depth to the information given.

I did not find any information in the book that seemed inaccurate.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

The content of the book focuses on the concepts and theories that are typically taught in an abnormal psychology course. Furthermore, the authors have made the material more relevant by keeping the research presented in the book current and by following the most recent version of the DSM. While many of the OER resources still refer to the DSM-5, this text utilizes information from the DSM-5-TR. I really like seeing studies cited and explained that were in the last few years rather than just focusing on studies that are a decade older or more.

Clarity rating: 4

The description of conceptsa nd the discussion of research results seemed appropriately clear.

Since this is a course in abnormal psychology, it should be assumed that the reader has some pre-existing knowledge of psychology concepts and is able to understand the way that these concepts are communicated in a textbook such as this.

The textbook is consistent in both the writing style and the way that content is organized in various sections and subsections.

After reading a chapter or two, a reader can reasonably predict both the tone of the writing as well as how future chapters will be organized.

Modularity rating: 3

The content in the textbook is divided by modules, which are divided by sections and broken up into subsections. This lends itself to easy adaptability because it would be easy to take out pieces and incorporate it into a course.

The one element of the textbook that might make adaptability slightly more complicated is that the chapters of the book are labeled modules. I prefer labeling each content area as chapters instead of modules because the modules in my course might not follow the same order that the textbook prefers to follow. This means that simply adopting the textbook without changing it in such a way to adhere to the order of the course is challenging unless the instructor wants to follow the material exactly in the order that it is presented in the textbook.

However, it is not a significant hurdle as editing the textbook to change the label for content areas isn’t too difficult.

The book is organized really well, and follows the organizational structure one might find in a traditional textbook from a publisher.

There is a logical sequence as to how the book is organized.

Interface rating: 5

There aren't significant issues with the text that cause any reading problems.

The type of font that is used is consistent and the authors use boxes to highlight information such as review questions andsection summaries.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

Throughout the textbook, grammar was pretty good.

I did not notice any glaring grammatical issues.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

I think the authors do a good job of structuring the material in a way that it speaks to diversity and they include research findings that also go along with that message. However, there isn't an abundance of content that focuses on the ways that people in different cultures are similar and different in how they express the types of abnormality described in the book. This is pretty normal with abnormal psychology textbooks, so this text does not deviate from the norm all that significantly.

This OER is a good substitute for traditional textbook material provided by a publisher. Additionally, I thought it was better structured and more comprehensive than some of the other OERs that focus on abnormal psychology.

As I mentioned previously, I have not been able to find and review ancillary material, but the content in the textbook itself is comprehensive, current, relevant, and well-written.

This OER is a great candidate for someone wanting to use an OER in an Abnormal Psychology course.

Reviewed by Kathy Harowski, Community faculty, advisor, Metropolitan State University on 2/25/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

While this reader found the text comprehensive, at times the level of detail included was overwhelming an questionable for an undergraduate audience. Both General Psychology and Abnormal Psychology are often GEN ED courses taken by the range of undergrads and of course, Abnormal Psychology would be of even more interest and foundational for psychology majors and is often more clinically focused. The level of detail found in sections on the history of treatment and neural transmission as well as other sections was overwhelming and perhaps not key to many students. For this reader, it was too much even with my length of experience in the field in terms of how one would engage students, keep them connected to the material much less useful assessment beyond old school memorization. My concern was intensified by the lack of effort on format, paragraphs full of descriptive statistics, etc. There was a lack of charts and images to help one grasp and retain the points made; in fact, infographics were mentioned at the end of such lengthy ,packed paragraphs and then a link to the original material was provided . DK if that was about costs or how the outside organizations permit use of their work, but rough.

Content Accuracy rating: 3

In the closely read sections, there was at least one quote without attribution. Wondered about personal beliefs - section 1.4.75- to address over use and not great prescribing of psychotropic medications, there one option offered, prescribing psychologists. This is a sentence made without attribution... Really? One might also mention the decreased number of psychiatrists, the fact that most psychotropic medication is prescribed by primary care practitioners, the massive growth of the range of nursing practitioners degrees as well as the ongoing controversy around training for prescribing psychologists- which by the way, I am an advocate for...

Overall the content seemed relevant and up to date. There was a question in my reading when I saw prevelance rates for mental illness from 2001-2003 being used as current.

A strength was the clarity of definitions provided.

Consistency rating: 4

consistent but see comments around the lack of images, graphs.... In the closely read sections, did not see consistency around use of case studies nor did one see a return to the case study at the end of the section/chapter to pull the information from the chapter together as part of the summary. A strength was the amount and clarity of definitions of terms provided.

see comments about format in general. Use of side bars, boxes, more images and graphics, more case studies, would help.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

well organized, organized around DMS V sections

See comments about the overall lack of images,tables, graphics to help ideas sink in. There were graphics in some sections.

clarity and grammar were solid.

Did not seem to be highlighted in the areas closely read. Was not even mentioned at all in the foundational sections nor was global statistics around mental illness and research.

Reviewed by Tim Boffeli, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology, Dept. Chair, Clarke University on 1/9/23

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

Content wise, the phrase “bare bones” would be too harsh. The book is about half the number of pages of the textbook that I am currently using. Plainly sufficient comes to mind especially considering the diminished amount of time that current students are engaging textbooks. Of the not covered topics, most of them are covered in our other courses in our curriculum (Psychology of Sex and Gender). Inclusion of neurodevelopmental disorders in future editions would be encouraged. Specific DSM 5 criteria are not included in the textbook. Inclusion of the criteria during the lecture would be critical for students to comprehend the diagnostic process. Descriptions of the various disorders is sufficient to enable students to understand what transpires life wise for the person who is experiencing the symptoms.

I have no concerns about accuracy.

Relevance was achieved.

The textbook was very readable and should engage a wide variety of students who have variable interests and attention spans.

The textbook was consistent.

The textbook was easy to follow and navigate.

The textbook was organized in a logical manner that did not necessarily dictate a proscribed sequence.

There were multiple empty pages which distracted from the flow. Initially, I wondered if content was missing.

No concerns about grammar.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

No concerns about cultural insensitivity.

The textbook has been renamed with assurances that the content is unchanged. Removing the word “Abnormal” is a positive step. In my lectures, we spend quality time discussing what is normal vs abnormal. That continuum is ever culturally changing. Many students who constantly experience disgruntlement bristle in class when the label of “abnormal” is applied to their lives.

Conclusion: I am a licensed mental health counselor. I think this textbook would be fine for faculty who have extensive counseling experiences. Seasoned faculty would know where to enhance the content with clinically relevant supplemental information. I did not review the supplemental instructor resources so maybe additional information are located in those resources. For faculty with limited clinical psychology experiences, I would question/be concerned about enhancements to prepare students who have a career goal involving clinical psychology interventions. With that being said, for a student who desires a general understanding of psychological disorders then this textbook should be fine.

Reviewed by Emily Abel, Visiting Assistant Professor, Wabash College on 11/7/22

This text included all of the major psychological disorders, though was missing some that I plan to discuss (neurodevelopmental disorders, sleep-wake disorders). Some of these are included in their childhood disorders book, though I would like to see at least a discussion of autism spectrum disorder in the newest edition of this book, since it is so relevant to daily life and functioning in adulthood. I also think a greater discussion of developmental psychopathology in the introductory chapters would be helpful in future editions.

I did not find any factual inaccuracies while reviewing this book. I found it to be an accurate reflection of the DSM-5 and relevent recent research studies.

This book is updated to reflect the most recent research and version of the DSM. Some prevalence estimates may need to be updated periodically (before the next update to the DSM) as they tend to change for some disorders over time.

This book is particularrly well written for an undergraduate audience. I found the modules to be clear and concise (a good length for each section that will hold student attention well).

I liked the parallel structure of the each module (to include the clinical presentation, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment of each disorder). This was consistent across all modules.

The book is broken down into modules that are based on the broader set of disorders (e.g., Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders) in the DSM-5.

This book is well organized both in terms of using modules, and within modules (headings and consisent structure of modules across the book).

Interface is easy to use. The links and table of contents all work nicely to jump to individual modules/sections and outside sources.

I did not notice any major grammatical errors throughout the text.

The examples and descriptions I looked at while reviewing the book all appeared to be culturally appropriate. However, I will be sure to look at this element closely when incorporating the textbook this spring. I will also solicit feedback from my students about this aspect of the text.

I am considering using this textbook (or at least portions of the book) for my spring undergraduate course in Abnormal Psychology. Overall, I found it to be well-organized, well-written, and easy to navigate (in addition to a good length in terms of holding student attention). I particularly liked the consistent outline of each module to include the clinical presentation, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment of each disorder. I think this parallel structure would be helpful to students in understanding the key components of each diagnosis we discuss in class. I also liked the inclusion of ‘Learning Outcomes’ and ‘Key Takeaways’ that can help instructors tie the text to lecture content and activities. Within many modules, the authors also include resources where students can find additional information on that topic (e.g., the National Eating Disorders website). I found these resources to be particularly helpful because students can follow the link directly from the online textbook or PDF, and it’s not another thing I need to add to the slides for class. I typically like to give students these additional resources as we never have time to cover everything in as much depth as I would ideally like. I do think this text includes the most common psychological disorders, and the ones that students are often most excited to learn about (e.g., personality disorders). However, it is also missing others from the DSM-5 that I do plan to cover, including neurodevelopmental disorders and sleep-wake disorders. This is not necessarily a negative thing, as many courses do not include these sections. However, I will need to supplement with other materials if I choose to fully adopt this book as my primary text. Below are a few other thoughts I had while reviewing the book: 1) As with most Abnormal Psychology textbooks, this book is focused on understanding how disorders present in adulthood. As a developmental scientist, I do plan to focus a bit more of the progression of these disorders across the lifespan than is done in the book (e.g., how do features of depression change from childhood to adulthood). However, the same authors do have another excellent open text that is specifically focused on behavioral disorders of childhood that I can and will likely easily integrate in my course to address this issue. Their childhood book also does include information on some neurodevelopmental disorders, which I mentioned are missing from the current book. It’s important to note that these are critical to discuss in adulthood as they are not just childhood disorders.

2) I quite like the intro chapter and how it introduces students to important methods, types of professionals (e.g., clinical psychologist, psychiatrist), and professional societies and journals. These are all things I planned to incorporate in my course. My only comment with the two opening sections is that I would have liked to see a more explicit discussion of the developmental psychopathology theory (e.g., work by Dante Cicchetti) included in the models of abnormal psychology. I think discussing the transactional model could also be helpful, but the developmental psychopathology theory is critical to understanding abnormal psychology and is something I will incorporate in my course.

3) It is a great text for students who are interested in understanding how specific disorders are diagnosed and treated and would be great intro information for students who want to pursue clinical careers. I do think I will need to supplement to make the content a bit more applied and community focused for my purposes, though that is not a criticism of this text, but rather something I would be personally looking for in a text directly tailored to my course.

Overall, I think this textbook would be great for an introductory course in abnormal psychology and will also be useful as an open educational resource in my spring course. As I mentioned above, I will likely combine with their open textbook on childhood disorders to emphasize how disorders change across the life course. I appreciate the easy-to-use organization of the book, and I will plan to report back on what my students think after their experiences this spring.

Reviewed by Madison Smart-McCarthy, Adjunct Professor, Tidewater Community College on 8/1/22

The outline of the textbook seemed similar to other abnormal psychology textbooks. The authors did a good job explaining terminology and defining mental health conditions. I think more clinical case examples could be provided throughout the textbook and perhaps inserting "food for thought" sort of sections that highlight recent studies and include questions that help students think critically about those studies. I have found sections in textbooks like that a good way to learn the material, help students apply concepts, and stimulate interesting discussion within the classroom.

I did not find any information to be inaccurate, contain errors, or be biased. Authors brought in DSM definitions and used research studies to support their claims. Authors gave credit to external sources throughout the book.

Authors state in the beginning of the text that they plan to update the sections to align with the newest edition of the DSM. Most of the information is still relevant but it may need to be tweaked in some areas to account for the DSM changes.

Authors select appropriate jargon and define parts that may not be known to an undergraduate student.

Textbook chapters are fairly consistent with how the modules are organized (DSM description, epidemiology, comorbidity, etc.). I found it very easy to review the sections because of the consistency. Students may also find this beneficial when trying to locate certain information within a chapter.

The authors divide the textbook into "Part," "Block," and "Modules," which give instructors a chance to break the chapters into smaller sections. The text for each section has appropriate font size and color.

I noticed that objectives/goals were presented at the beginning of the chapter and for each module. It may be helpful to stick to either objectives for the whole chapter or for each section.

The organization of the textbook seems similar to other abnormal textbooks from publishers, such as Pearson. Personally, I think the sections on epidemiology and comorbidity could be summarized within each section that describes the DSM definition of the disorder or summarized in a single paragraph.

Additionally, the way that the textbook is organized currently it includes "Part," "Block," and "Module." The labels "Part" and "Block" are not very descriptive. Students may benefit from more detailed labels.

The authors mention at the beginning of the textbook that they plan to update the text in August 2022. This may be a reason that images, charts, graphs, etc. were not used in the textbook. There were colored boxes at the end of each chapter that summarized the material and included review questions. No navigation problems were evident.

A discussion of cultural differences were found in various sections of the textbook (e.g. Module 1.4.7.4 and Module 5.5.4). However, I think students could benefit from more examples throughout the textbook that include individuals from a variety of races, ethnicities, and backgrounds as well as explaining how presentations may vary depending on one's identity and/or culture. The explanation about rates of PTSD within the Hispanic population was excellent. .

Images would be a wonderful addition to this textbook. I'm excited to see the edits that will be made soon.

Reviewed by Stephanie RiCharde, Visiting Assistant Professor, Randolph College on 4/10/22

The text covered the major expected content. The authors included an effective glossary and index. The index would be improved it were clickable like the table of contents. read more

The text covered the major expected content. The authors included an effective glossary and index. The index would be improved it were clickable like the table of contents.

The authors included many relevant, accurate ideas and concepts in modules 1 and 2 to set the stage for their discussion of specific mental illnesses. I was very concerned about their lack of primary source citations, which is something about which I speak with my students extensively. I would be uncomfortable assigning a text that cites websites and blogs.

The authors presented up-to-date content that could be updated in the future if necessary.

The text is written in a style that is accessible to undergraduate students. It is easy to read and follow. The authors do not always provide enough information to explain content to those who have no previous knowledge of the topic. For example, their discussion of the disease model is not clear enough nor does it prepare an undergraduate student with no background information to answer the review question about the model at the end of the section. The authors go to great care to highlight and define many key terms in the first chapter, but then describe a study about social distance without describing what social distance is, a term that warrants explanation.

I did not notice any inconsistencies in my review.

The modules are broken down into smaller sections in a way that would make it easy to assign.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 3

I did not always feel that the topics were presented in the most effective order to reduce confusion. For example, the prevalence rate for serious mental illnesses was presented before a description of what a serious mental illness is. Another example is presenting information about using psychotropic medications as treatment for specific disorders prior to discussing those disorders.

I used the pdf in my review, which had no major issues. Sometimes the pages broke at places that were not ideal, but I did not see that as a major problem.

The text was well-written for the audience. I notice one grammar error.

I did not observe culturally offensive language. The authors discussed multicultural issues, but more should be added to address the many cultural issues related to the diagnosis and treatment.

In module 1, I was excited to see there was a section on deinstitutionalization, then quickly disappointed that it was a mere three sentences that glossed over the phenomenon nearly entirely.

Reviewed by Kris Owens, Assistant Professor, Grand View University on 10/14/21

As an introductory Abnormal Psychology textbook, it covers most of the main psychological disorders. It is comprehensive and accessible. Future enhancements could include sexual and gender identity disorders, research methodology, and expand on... read more

The concepts and supporting empirical evidence are accurate and not biased. Periodic updates will be needed to stay current. The second edition, August 2020 includes updated references.

The textbook is relevant and it incorporates current research. It should remain relevant until the DSM 5 is revised. The content and links can be easily updated, when necessary.

The design of the textbook and the navigation is accessible and clear. The terms throughout the modules in addition to the glossary and “key takeaways” are features that students should appreciate. The simplicity and clarity of the content is appropriate for an introductory textbook.

The psychological disorders (content related to the etiology, symptoms, and treatment) are presented consistently throughout each block or module. There is uniformity in each section.

The sections are modular. I really appreciated that variety of formats (Pressbook XML, PDF, and online e-book). The navigation is easy to use and it should be accessible for all learners.

The textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the main psychological disorders with a really good structural framework. The chapter organization and uniformity are excellent. The “back matter,” which includes the glossary, references, and index is positioned in a logical order with accessible links.

The interface and navigation are excellent. The infographics are clearly displayed and easy to read online.

It was well-written. No concerns or errors noted.

The book content is culturally appropriate when addressing the complexity and heterogenous nature of psychological disorders. The cultural relevance may vary based on a variety of factors and social environments. The addition of sexual and gender identity disorders would enhance the cultural relevance.

For an introductory textbook, it is very good. Incorporating content related to sexual and gender identity disorders, research methodology, and expand ethical issues would enhance student learning. Several of these topics could serve as discussion prompts to facilitate a more in-depth understanding of cultural differences.

Reviewed by Jason Li, Associate Professor, Wichita State University on 10/5/21

This textbook is quite comprehensive as an overall introduction to Abnormal Psychology. The content of each chapter unfolds each main objective and provides clear explanations with examples and figures. I recommend this book to students in counseling, psychology, and social work or anyone who is in the mental health field. The information is clear and easy to understand.

The content is accurate and unbiased

The content is relevant and straightforward with supporting photographs and links that can be updated.

In my view, its easy to follow each section and build connection between chapters. The language was appropriate for the context.

The framework for each section is consistent. I believe that students will enjoy this easy to follow layout and framework.

The textbook is broken down into logical and manageable sections that could be divided for instructors and students. The subheadings are very helpful in navigating readers to the objective of each section.

The book chapters are presented in a logical, clear fashion. Well organized by chapters and headings.

The interface is issue free and easy to read on a screen. The photo and tables are clearly displayed.

Well-written, with not noticeable grammatical errors.

Its imperative that we teach and address mental disorders across dimensions of race and ethnicity, countries of origin, home languages, socioeconomic status, and religious beliefs. I think that bringing in cultural implications may add to the well-roundness of this textbook.

I would use this textbook in a couple of my classes. However, I did not find references to refer to in-text citations.

Reviewed by Erin Palmwood, Assistant Professor, University of Mary Washington on 6/25/21

This text covers all key groups of psychological disorders that one might want to discuss in an Abnormal Psychology course. It provides an appropriate overview of key components within each subject area and does not "cast too wide a net" - it focuses appropriately on the most up-to-date, empirically-supported information about the etiology, symptoms, and treatment of each disorder. Additionally, the text is appropriately concise, providing key information in a way that is both comprehensive and accessible. Regarding content areas, I would have liked to see a Research Methods chapter and perhaps a designated chapter on Ethical Issues (which is currently a small section of the Contemporary Issues chapter).

The text provides accurate, up-to-date, scientifically sound information regarding the etiology, symptoms, and treatment of each psychological disorder. However, it is missing a significant number of citations for the information provided - which is a problem in terms of (1) assessing the credibility of the claims made in the text and (2) teaching students the importance of citing their work.

The text is up-to-date with current research, and it is also organized in such a way that future updates to our understanding of the etiology and treatment of different psychological disorders should be relatively easy to add to the book.

The clarity of the text is one of its major strengths. It is written in a way that is accessible and concise, and key concepts are presented in a very digestible manner. While many textbooks might take two paragraphs to explain a concept, this textbook achieves an appropriate level of detail in a few sentences - which will likely enhance student engagement with the text.

The book achieves appropriate consistently in style and approach to content.

The text has several headers and sub-headers that are logical and consistent across chapters, as well as "key takeaways" at the end of each section. An instructor could easily break down a chapter into smaller assignments for students without causing high levels of confusion.

The chapters within this textbook are exceedingly well-organized. Across chapters, content is presented in a predictable way that is outlined at the start of the chapter, and key takeaways are presented between each section to facilitate learning consolidation. However, some of the "blocks" which organize the chapters within the textbook are structured in an unclear manner, which makes it difficult to anticipate where certain chapters might be located.

No interface concerns noted.

No grammatical concerns noted.

I did not observe any culturally insensitive language in my review of the text. However, the text's coverage of cultural factors in the etiology, presentation, and treatment of psychological disorders is exceedingly limited, and I would have liked to see increased attention to the role of culture and identity throughout the book.

The information provided in the PTSD section would benefit from increased focus on current empirically-supported treatments. Of the four psychotherapeutic treatments discussed, one is critical incident stress debriefing (CISD), which has been shown to have iatrogenic effects, and one is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), which is controversial at best. While the text does discuss exposure therapy and CBT, it is missing explicit discussions of empirically-supported treatments like CPT and PE.

Reviewed by Janessa Carvalho, Associate Professor, Bridgewater State University on 6/23/21

Bridley's text covers most of the traditional components covered in Abnormal Psychology textbooks, though I was disappointed to see the absence of neurodevelopmental disorders and sexual/gender disorders covered. Historically, students really enjoy learning about neurodevelopmental disorders and sexual/gender disorders chapter offers a nice opportunity to teach sociocultural factors in clinical psychology.

I thought the book overall made very accurate statements, with the exception that some information in the Current Trends section (Module 1) could stand to be updated.

The authors for the most part cover all relevant content in the field.

The book was written in a clear format with good readability for undergraduate level.

I found overall consistency among presentation of disorders and content within each learning module. Though there was some redundancy (classification covered in module 1 and 3).

I found the various sections and content to be relatively will encapsulated and students would be able to review content in small chunks, if thats of their choosing, without disrupting flow of learning. However, I prefer a bit more scaffolding where the content builds up to other information.

Organization and structure were quite aligned with other Abnormal Psychology textbooks I've reviewed and used.

The web format used for this textbook worked just fine for me and figures and tables were viewable without any issue.

No grammatical issues found on my end.

Would like to see more on cultural factors in various areas, including chapter 1 (societies), and the sociocultural model covered in module 2. Again, as I mentioned, the absence of a chapter on sexual/gender disorders takes away an opportunity to discuss more sociocultural factors. This seemed to be an area that the authors could focus on in a revision.

Overall an interesting book, very similar to other (costly) Abnormal psychology textbooks, and a good option for students. However, I was put off in module 2 where WebMD was cited as a source; this was disconcerting as I always encourage my students to use primary sources in their work. This was very offputting to me.

Reviewed by Angela Duncan, Lecturer, Washburn University Institute of Technology on 6/9/21

For many instructors' purposes, this abnormal psychology text will suffice or maybe exceed expectations given its depth regarding introductory material (i.e biopsychosocial model and models of abnormality). It offers an excellent introduction to abnormal psychology without being cumbersome for the student. However, it is not an ideal option if you are wanting to cover childhood, sexual and gender identity disorders or health psychology-related topics such as sleep disorders as these topics are not included.

Overall, the information is consistent with other abnormal psychology textbooks and the scientific literature.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 3

On page 90, the authors discuss the upcoming release of ICD-11 in 2018. This statement should be updated. I would also like to see updated statistics on the prevalence of mental disorders in the “current views/trends” section (pages 31-32) as the most recent citation is dated 2014. In addition, the information about who seeks treatment could use an update as the newest citation is 2013 (page 91). I would also recommend updated empirical citations reflecting the latest research in the field. However, all texts fall prey to the challenge of staying relevant in some respects so this text is not an anomaly in that regard.

Descriptions of symptoms and diagnostic criteria are very clear and presented in simple language. Language overall is easy to understand.

The text's terminology and framework seems internally consistent.

The text is divided into six sections that can easily be reordered as desired, and the chapters make sense as arranged in each module. I appreciate the merging of somatic symptom disorders with anxiety and OCD.

At the end of each section, the authors include helpful “key takeaways” to summarize what was addressed, and “review questions” to assess comprehension. Additionally, they include a “module recap” summarizing key points from the entire module.

Interface rating: 4

Images/charts are minimal, but those that are present are helpful and easy to see and interpret. The only image that may pose a clarity issue for some is figure 2.5 illustrating Pavlov’s classical experiment.

The text is well-written, without grammatical errors.

The authors provide an important section on stigma and its relevance to mental disorders as well as a section on multicultural psychology.

This is the only open access abnormal psychology text that I am aware of, and I commend the authors for a valuable first edition that is easy to read and offers an effective introduction to abnormal psychology. My criticism of this text is minor compared to the accolades. I would highly recommend this text for instructors looking for an abnormal psychology text without the excessive detail but instead concise information palatable to most students.

Reviewed by Ruth Anthony, Faculty, Portland Community College on 6/7/21

The content was appropriate and covered a wide range of disorders that are either interesting and/or common in the practicing field. I am also a clinician and found the particular disorders to be the most prevalent while working in community... read more

Overall, it appeared to be accurate and error-free. Unbiased, is difficult to measure as this text still pertains to the medical model which is a dominant culture lens and perspective.

It is relevant to today's standards. It will need to undergo revision as the DSM-5 is updated. It does lack a bit in cultural relevance (see culture review below). As someone who practices as a clinician, it has some nice definitions/summaries in the disorders section. However, it lacks some in application for someone who is unfamiliar with these disorders and how they manifest. Incorporating examples of what this might look like in real life scenarios or as a presenting concern would be helpful for students. It doesn't have to be in this book, it could be something that the educator adds to further enrich students' understanding.

The text is straightforward, however, a bit dry as most textbooks are. I would recommended this textbook/abnormal phycology class to students who have already completed basic psych courses to have a bit of framework prior to increase their familiarity with the jargon. However, the terminology is well organized with definition for reference.

The entire text stayed consistent in flow, voice, and framework. The tone is similar to that of many textbooks in the field when provided information or definition. The example case studies are nice break and provide a nice reference to work with throughout.

Modularity rating: 4

The modules were outlined clearly in the table of contents and could easily be broken up into sections for class assignments. Some images to break up each module at the beginning would be nice for some added aesthetics and flare. The interface (see below) could have been a bit better though.

I was most impressed by the organization as it was clear and straight-forward. It is formatted exactly how I would which is a more technical writing style. This however makes me a bit bias due to the personal preference in organization.

The text could have been organized a bit better. The section breakage for a more aesthetically appealing read was not there. It was reminiscent of strict APA or MLA guidelines in the breakage of section. It felt a big awkward with a title heading being at the end of a page and the accompanying content being on the next page.

I did not notice any grammatical errors while reading. At least any that stood out enough to make the read difficult or awkward in flow.

I would have liked to have seen a more in-depth look into cultural difference in applying these disorders. There was brief recognition and consideration, however, at the minimum that I see in most Western texts. There are references to build cultural understanding and humility as part of the standard in practice; a good list of sources would be beneficial. I would use this resource along with several other resources with a more in-depth cultural lens.

Reviewed by Ann Tamulinas, Adjunct Professor, Massachusetts Bay Community College on 5/24/21

It covers most topics and more than adequate background as well. I like that it includes at the end of each section specific takeaways. read more

It covers most topics and more than adequate background as well. I like that it includes at the end of each section specific takeaways.

Topics appear to be accurate and references abundant.

Content is very relevant and includes biological information that is accurate and up to date and not prone to become obsolute.

Clear language, but a bit dull. Authors managed to make a fascinating subjects not so!

Text is extremely structured with precise sections and clear language and many definitions.

Text is divided into many sections and vocabulary defined and grouped in each section.

Again the text is extremely organized from beginning to end. The numbering of the sections is very precise.

Sometimes the text is cut off on the bottom of lines. The look and feel is not appealing--does not grab. More visuals needed and perhaps a better font.

The entire book is well written, but gain not in an interesting style. Too clinical.

The text is quite neutral in cultural bias. I didn't see any race, ethnicity inclusiveness of any kind.

I usually teach Computers and Technology and was unable to find a suitable text. I have taught abnormal psychology in the past so I chose this text. I had an excellent textbook (I can't remember the title, though) which was easy to follow as well as informative and interesting to read. While this one is well organized and well written, I would not recommend this text to use other than a reference.

Reviewed by Xin Zhao, Assistant Professor, Salt Lake Community College on 2/24/21

Excellent content offering, comparable to traditional publisher's. The chapters are narrative driven in the beginning. With updated 2nd edition, excellent glossary, references, index, and adequate content. read more

The content is very up to date and accurate, which I compared chapter by chapter during lecture with the DSM-V. Also did a good job noting significant changes from DSM-V-TR and in comparisons with ICD-11.

The authors did a good job incorporating culturally appropriate updates and timely changes, however, the information in this domain is a little bit thin. I find it helpful to incorporate some more updated changes in the field and current events to supplement the text.

The written text is excellent. Very easy to read and engaging for the reader, even without technical background. Very appropriately done, especially for psychology students who most likely have been exposed to some of these content in lower level psychology classes. Language and terminology are up to the latest standard.

Terminology and framework consistent throughout the textbook and in line with DSM-V standards.

The updated 2nd edition improved on the organization of modules, making the different disorder information easily accessible according to appropriate diagnostic areas.

Perhaps one of the significant strength of this textbook is the organization. Very easy to find relevant disorder and learn about them from a student perspective. With the updated version, it follows closely with how DSM-V is organizing the diagnoses.

Both the Pressbook and pdf versions are clear and displayed correctly.

No grammatical errors detected.

The textbook made attempts to introduce cultural factors in each respective chapters. However, I would like to see later versions build upon this interest and facilitate more in depth discussions about multiculturalism.

The ancillary material offered were excellent, including visual-based powerpoint slides, and learning objective based test banks. Highly recommend reaching out to authors to supplement teaching.

Reviewed by Angela Mar, Lecturer, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley on 11/13/20

The textbook does an adequate job of covering the essential topics of the field, and additionally provides a glossary and index that would help a reader find key concepts quickly and efficiently. read more

The textbook does an adequate job of covering the essential topics of the field, and additionally provides a glossary and index that would help a reader find key concepts quickly and efficiently.

To the extent of this review, the text is accurate and error-free. The textbook states facts, so bias should not be an issue.

The topic of abnormal psychology is going to be one that is studied for generations to come. Although, the diagnostic manual (DSM) is already in its 5th edition and was created in a way to allow for evolve with times and society, so this textbook will need to be updated to adhere to the newest diagnostic guidelines.

Students who take an abnormal psychology course are usually in their fourth year, almost ready to graduate. Given this, the textbook's clarity should be on par with that of the students' level.

The terminology is consisten throughout the text and is in line with the DSM diagnostic guidelines.

I like who the textbook is divided into diagnostic blocks to help the student become familiar with diagnostic guidelines.

I like how the book reads like the DSM diagnostic manual. The same class of disorders are paired together to better understand the disorders and the similarities between them, which is helpful because of the incidence of comorbidity.

No problems while reviewing.

No grammatical errors were encountered during the review of this textbook.

The textbook does a fair job of including cultural awareness and sensitivity into the relaying of demographic information about the incidence of each disorder.

Reviewed by Mary Ann Woodman, Adjunct Professor, Rogue Community College on 8/10/20

Bridley and Daffin provide one of the most comprehensive treatments of mental health and illness offered in an open textbook. The authors cover nearly every subject and learning objective required for a college introductory course on Abnormal Psychology. They begin with a story to capture the reader’s interest and lay out the intention and format so that it is uncomplicated and clearly understood. The writing style appears easy to read, full of useful, insightful information. There is a significant glossary, list references and an index at the end.

The content of the text seems quite accurate and up to date. The authors present subject matter in an unbiased and objective manner. The subject matter as well as the notes on changes in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual and International Classification of Diseases are devoid of errors.

The content seems current and relevant especially to college students who are preparing to work in human services careers. The authors interface statistics, modern research articles and web sites to support the concepts. The text is arranged in a way that new additions could be easily added in the future. The book could use more stories, narratives and visuals supporting the content especially case studies which students may encounter in their lives. Examples of how to apply what one learns to real life would greatly enrich the textbook and easy to coalesce.

The text is written in lucid, intelligible, easy to read prose. Brief introductions and summaries are offered throughout the book which enhances clarity. No part of the written material seems confusing to the reader. The language and terminology are standard in terms of the learning objectives and information. It may need to be made accessible to students with learning disabilities and thus easily utilized in online course platforms such as Blackboard.

The text is internally consistent in terms of terminology and framework. The authors might consider spelling out terms in headings such as BDD, BED and FBT. However, the format is totally consistent throughout the entire book.

The outline of the book is most impressive. The text is readily divisible with reading sections and sub- headings that are precise and uncomplicated. There are no areas with large blocks of text that require further subdivision. The learning objectives are implemented with ease and flow. Having the learning objectives explained is an advantage for college curriculum purposes. There are no sections with an overload of written material nor is there overly self-referential material in the book.

The written material is presented in a logical, explicit and clear fashion. The six modules are laid out with titles and each module subdivided into sections. The authors begin “setting the stage” by introducing the notion of what it means to be normal and move into definitions of abnormality citing the traditional criteria: dysfunction, distress, defiance and danger. They integrate positive psychology with abnormal psychology, so the reader has a broader vision of the field. The history of mental illness, various theories and brief descriptions of the major research methods establish a foundation for the study. Concepts are backed up with research and website references. Clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment contains just the right amount of information. The remainder of the modules treat most of the psychiatric disorders listed in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, with a concise introduction and focus on clinical presentation, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment options. The authors refer the students back to modules 1-3 for reminders of theory and causality. The book includes some information on psychopathology, law, ethics and leaves the reader wondering if gaming is an addiction. It is missing sexual and sleep disorders. Finally, each module is recapped at its close.

The visuals interfaced in the text regarding the nervous system and classical conditioning support the written material. There does not seem to be any distortions, navigation problems or display features that confuse or distract the reader. The remainder of the book contains very few graphs, tables or visuals which would be very useful learning tools to add in the future.

The text contains no grammatical or spelling errors.

The authors state that “culture-sensitive therapies have been developed increasing awareness of cultural values, hardships, stressors, and/or prejudices, the identification of suppressed anger and pain; and raising the client’s self-worth.” Here is one example: “Individuals from non-Western countries (China and other Asian countries) often focus on the physical symptoms of depression- tiredness, weakness, sleep issues, and less of an emphasis on the cognitive symptoms. Individuals from Latino and Mediterranean cultures often experience problems with “nerves” and headaches as primary symptoms of depression (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Multi-cultural psychology appears somewhat integrated into the text material. Naturally, more examples inclusive of race and ethnicity could be employed in the future including Native American and other indigenous cultures.

The book includes common treatments used for mental illness: CBT, IPT, Modeling, Biofeedback, Rational-Emotive Therapy, EMDR, Exposure and Desensitization, Hypnosis, Relaxation Training, Aversion Therapy, Emotional Regulation and others. It would be helpful to expand treatment options to include Naturopathy (homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine etc), Orthomolecular Medicine (Nutritional Therapy, and Energy Psychology such as EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique, Reiki, Neuro-linguistic Programming, and Group Therapy Workbooks, such as Anger and Stress Management, Drug and Alcohol Programs or SAMHSA Trauma Informed Care Manual that lists numerous programs for Post Traumatic Stress for example. The authors could provide at least one study on the benefits of spiritual practices such as prayer, ritual, mindfulness, music, tribal dance, yoga etc. The significance of spirituality and religious practices is overlooked. A more comprehensive list of various treatments could be included as an appendix.

In the section on the history of mental illness, there could be a comment on the fact that former methods of treatment are still employed today and have been improvised to meet the challenges of modernity. ECT, still used in psychiatric hospitals and exorcism/deliverance therapy employed in various religious traditions are merely two examples.

Another option would be to place pharmacology at the end of the treatment list instead of the first, primary one in the sections of each module. Then comment about how prescription drugs have side-affects and are sometimes abused by the recipient.

A graph of specific phobias, list of common “stressors” with reference to various stress inventories, and examples of adjustment disorders related to college students would enrich the text . The section on suicide could be expanded further as well as additional treatments and current programs for neurocognitive disorders.

Overall, Bridley and Daffin have accomplished a major task in edition one. It would be a welcomed text for a college course in Abnormal Psychology.

Part I. Setting the Stage

Module 1: What is Abnormal Psychology?
Module 2: Models of Abnormal Psychology
Module 3: Clinical Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Part II. Mental Disorders - Block 1

Module 4: Mood Disorders
Module 5: Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders
Module 6: Dissociative Disorders

Part III. Mental Disorders - Block 2

Module 7: Anxiety Disorders
Module 8: Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders
Module 9: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

Part IV. Mental Disorders - Block 3

Module 10: Feeding and Eating Disorders
Module 11: Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders

Part V. Mental Disorders - Block 4

Module 12: Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders
Module 13: Personality Disorders

Part VI. Mental Disorders - Block 5

Module 14: Neurocognitive Disorders
Module 15: Contemporary Issues in Psychopathology

Ancillary Material

Ancillary materials are available by contacting the author or publisher .

About the Book

Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders (formerly Abnormal Psychology) is an Open Education Resource written by Alexis Bridley, Ph.D. and Lee W. Daffin Jr., Ph.D. through Washington State University. The book tackles the difficult topic of mental disorders in 15 modules and is updated through the DSM-5-TR. This journey starts by discussing what abnormal behavior is by attempting to understand what normal behavior is. Models of abnormal psychology and clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment are then discussed. With these three modules completed, the authors next explore several classes of mental disorders in 5 blocks. Block 1 covers mood, trauma and stressor related, and dissociative disorders. Block 2 covers anxiety, somatic symptom, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Block 3 covers eating and substance-related and addictive disorders. Block 4 tackles schizophrenia spectrum and personality disorders. Finally, Block 5 investigates neurocognitive disorders and then ends with a discussion of contemporary issues in psychopathology. Disorders are covered by discussing their clinical presentation and DSM Criteria, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment options.

About the Contributors

Alexis Bridley , Washington State University

Lee W. Daffin Jr. , Washington State University

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Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on abnormal behavior and psychopathology. Many students believe that abnormal psychology is very interesting. However, students feel that abnormal psychology research paper topics are extremely difficult to write about. We want to assure students that there are so many abnormal psychology research paper topics that are easy enough for them to write about. We know that many students don’t have enough time to brainstorm for topics, which is why we have listed the best abnormal psychology research paper topics below. All the topics that we listed below will inspire students to study well and become professionals in the future. We strongly believe that students will quickly know what to write about these topics after they carry out their research. Students who use our topics in their education will surely impress their professors and colleagues. By using these topics, students will discover the true essence of a research paper and make the most out of their college years.

Abnormal Psychology
Anxiety Disorders
Antisocial personality disorder
Factors That Lead To sociopaths
investigation self-harm disorder
A psychotherapeutic approach in investing Antisocial Behavior
study of abnormal psychology
Why a patient with schizophrenia is vulnerable to commit suicide
Vincent Van Gogh’s mental disorders
Investigating the causes of alternative reality
Post-traumatic stress disorders
Borderline Personality Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Supporting pharmacotherapy for bipolar affective disorder
Autism Spectrum disorder among young people
Possible Solutions To Death Anxiety
psychological profile of a typical child abuser
Cognitive disorders in endogenous psychoses
How Eating Disorders Is Related To Psychological Issues
What Causes Difficulty In Learning Among Some Students?
Coping with past trauma
Therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Treatment of postpartum psychoses
Clinical manifestations of postpartum psychoses
The ethics behind the Stanford prison experiment
How the exposure to television effects on the emotional development of children
Fetishes and sexually deviant behavior
Features of psychoses provoked by cannabinoids and smoking mixtures
Features of hypochondriac and senestopathic disorders
How hypochondriac and senestopathic disorders manifests in patients with anorexia nervosa
How Is Internet addiction a psychological issue?
Influence of advertising on people with mental pathology
Features of mental and neurological disorders
The Early Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
Past life regression therapy
How Math Anxiety Is A Psychological Issue
The interrelation of traumatic experience
Aggressive behavior among convicted men
The Causes Of Mood Disorders
The primary cause of abnormal brain development
Lying and Truthfulness
The Psychological Aspect Of Suicide
Causes Of Personality Disorders
Multiple Personality Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Suicide Among The Elderly
The Major Cause Of Self Mutilation
Solution To Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
The relationship between brain development and abnormal behaviors
Narcissistic personality disorder
Effects Of Negative Parenting On Child Psychology
Parapsychology and paranormal phenomenon
Phobic disorders in a person with schizophrenia
The brain structure of a typical person with senestopathic disorders
How Sexual Perversion Develops
Self-mutilation for coping.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
The connection between self-esteem and self-damaging behavior
Psychopathology
Professional burnout as a particular form of professional destruction
Psychopathological aspects of anorexia nervosa
The cause of persistent hallucinations
Treatment of anorexia nervosa
The Characters Of A Typical Example Of A Person With Schizophrenia
How can music serve as a form of therapy for mental health disorder?
Diagnosis of schizophrenia
Psychological features of adolescents with neurogenic anorexia.
Sleepwalking disorder among young people
Oedipus and Electra complexes
The Diagnosis Of Schizophrenia
How Psychological Issues Lead To Suicide
Self-Mutilation
The context of psychosexual BDSM subculture
The Relationship Between Loneliness And Metal Disorder
Diagnostics of sexual perversion
Gender identity in modern psychoanalysis
Teaching Abnormal Psychology
Teenage Suicide As A Form Of Psychological Disorder
Social Pathology
Workplace psychology of ex-felons
DSM criteria for diagnosis
The psychological impact of online dating and social networks on teenagers
Socio-psychological typology
Does a typical serial killer suffer from a psychological disorder?
The negative effects of xenophobia
Psychological boundary violations in adolescence
The connection between temperament and the way adolescents incline towards deviant behavior
The causes of recurrent depression
The causes of social anxiety disorder
Violations of social intelligence
The Diagnosis Of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
The importance of cognitive behavior counseling
The relationship between character accentuation and aggression among convicts
Social anxiety disorder
How post-traumatic stress disorder develops

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128+ Interesting and Relevant Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Oct 12, 2023 | 0 comments

Oct 12, 2023 | Topics | 0 comments

Abnormal psychology is an essential field that aims to understand and treat psychological disorders. Numerous research paper topics are available for exploration in the study of abnormal psychology. These topics cover various subjects, including the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of various psychological disorders. Researchers and students in online graduate programs in this field can also investigate topics related to the cultural, social, and environmental factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of abnormal behavior. This article will explore some of the most intriguing and relevant abnormal psychology research paper topics that students and professionals can consider when conducting research in this field.

Interesting Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Effects of childhood trauma on the development of borderline personality disorder
Cultural differences in the experience and expression of depression
Genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development of schizophrenia
The impact of technology on social anxiety disorder
The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder
Substance abuse and its relationship with mood disorders
The role of parenting styles in the development of conduct disorder
Psychological interventions for managing chronic pain in individuals with somatic symptom disorder

Good Psychology Research Paper Topics for College

The impact of childhood education on future academic success
Effects of mindfulness meditation on reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
The relationship between sleep patterns and cognitive performance
The effectiveness of play therapy in treating children with behavioral disorders
The effects of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents
Factors influencing resilience in individuals with a history of trauma
Investigating the placebo effect in psychological treatments
The role of personality traits in predicting job satisfaction and performance.

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

The effects of early childhood experiences on social development in later life
How parenting styles affect adolescent risk-taking behaviors
The role of nature versus nurture in personality development
The impact of bilingualism on cognitive development in children
The influence of attachment styles on romantic relationships in adulthood
The effects of technology use on language and cognitive development in children
Investigating the relationship between early childhood nutrition and cognitive development
Gender identity development in adolescence and its long-term effects on mental health.

Cognitive Psychology Research Topics

The impact of sleep on cognitive functioning and decision-making
The role of attentional control in emotion regulation
Investigating the effects of aging on memory and cognitive processing
Cognitive mechanisms underlying creativity and problem-solving
Cognitive biases in decision-making and their effects on behavior
The relationship between language and thought
The neural basis of consciousness and awareness
The effects of mindfulness training on cognitive and emotional well-being.

Social Psychology Research Topics

The effects of social comparison on self-esteem and body image
How social support influences coping strategies and resilience
The role of group identity in intergroup conflict and prejudice
Investigating the effects of social norms on behavior and attitudes
The impact of social media on social identity and relationships
The effects of culture and socialization on personality and behavior
Investigating the relationship between social influence and conformity
The role of empathy and perspective-taking in prosocial behavior and helping.

Experimental Psychology Research Topics

Investigating the effects of priming on memory and perception
The impact of music on cognitive processing and emotional regulation
The effects of meditation and mindfulness on attention and well-being
The role of sleep in memory consolidation and learning
Investigating the relationship between mood and decision-making
The effects of cognitive load on decision-making and risk-taking behavior
Investigating the neural mechanisms underlying perception and attention
The effects of sensory deprivation on perception, cognition, and emotion.

Sports Psychology Research Topics

Investigating the psychological factors that influence athletic performance
Examining the impact of goal-setting on sports performance
The effects of self-talk and mental imagery on sports performance
Investigating the role of motivation in sports performance and exercise adherence
The impact of anxiety and stress on sports performance
Examining the relationship between team cohesion and sports performance
Investigating the effects of sports-related injuries on psychological well-being and recovery
The role of coaching and feedback in improving sports performance.

Forensic Psychology Research Paper Topics

The reliability and validity of eyewitness testimony in criminal trials
Investigating the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for convicted criminals
The impact of trauma on criminal behavior and rehabilitation
Examining the role of forensic psychologists in criminal investigations and trials
Investigating the Accuracy and reliability of criminal Profiling
The ethical considerations in forensic psychology, including the use of deception and the boundaries of confidentiality
The impact of mental health disorders on criminal behavior and the criminal justice system
Examining the effectiveness of restorative justice practices in reducing recidivism rates.

Psychology Topics for Your Research Paper

The impact of social media on mental health
The psychology of addiction and its treatment
The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
The role of mindfulness in managing anxiety and depression
The influence of personality on career success and satisfaction
The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
The relationship between sleep and mental health
The effects of exercise on mental health and well-being

Best Abnormal Psychology Research Topics

The effects of childhood trauma on the development of personality disorders
The relationship between addiction and mental health disorders
The impact of social media on body dysmorphic disorder
The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
The impact of childhood abuse on the development of dissociative identity disorder
The relationship between anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in the treatment of depression

Child Psychology: Topic Ideas for Your Essay

The impact of divorce on children’s mental health: A comparative study
The effect of parenting styles on child development
The influence of early childhood education on cognitive development
Child abuse and its long-term consequences on mental health
The relationship between bullying and self-esteem in children
The impact of social media on children’s mental health
The role of attachment theory in child development
The effect of video games on children’s behavior and cognitive skills

Health Psychology Research Questions

How does stress affect physical health?
What is the role of social support in coping with chronic illness?
How do cultural beliefs and attitudes impact health behaviors?
What are effective interventions for promoting healthy behaviors in adolescents?
How does personality influence health outcomes?
How do environmental factors impact mental health?
How does chronic illness impact mental health and quality of life?
How can technology be used to improve health behaviors and outcomes?

Educational Psychology Research Topics for College

The impact of technology on learning and educational psychology.
Motivation and its effects on academic performance in different age groups.
The role of teachers in promoting positive learning outcomes in students.
The impact of different teaching strategies on student engagement and motivation.
How cultural and social factors influence learning and educational psychology.
The impact of mental health on academic performance and effective interventions.
The influence of parental involvement on student success and academic achievement.
The effects of different classroom environments on learning and educational psychology.

Psychiatry Case Studies: Researchable Topics

The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating depression in elderly patients.
A case study of a patient with bipolar disorder and comorbid substance abuse disorder.
The use of psychodynamic therapy in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
A case study of a patient with borderline personality disorder and its treatment with dialectical behavior therapy.
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in the treatment of PTSD.
A case study of a patient with schizophrenia and the use of antipsychotic medication.
The role of family therapy in the treatment of eating disorders.
A case study of a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder and its treatment with exposure and response prevention therapy.

Good Essay Writing Topics in Behavioral Psychology

The impact of stress on behavior and coping mechanisms.
The role of social learning in shaping behavior.
The relationship between personality traits and behavior.
The effects of the cognitive dissonance on behavior.
The psychological factors behind addiction and substance abuse.
The influence of culture on behavior and perception.
The impact of media and technology on behavior and mental health.
The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.

Mental Disorders Research Topics for College Students

The relationship between childhood trauma and the development of borderline personality disorder.
The effects of social media on depression and anxiety in young adults.
The link between genetics and the risk for developing schizophrenia.
The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of healthcare workers.
The prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military veterans.
The role of mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and mental health.
The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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What are the topics in abnormal psychology?

Topics in abnormal psychology focus on studying abnormal behavior, thought processes, and emotions. These topics include the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of various psychological disorders, such as anxiety, mood, personality, and psychotic disorders.

What are some interesting abnormal psychology questions?

Some interesting abnormal psychology questions include: What are the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to the development of schizophrenia? How does childhood trauma affect the development of borderline personality disorder? What are the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder? How do cultural differences influence the experience and expression of depression? How can we differentiate between normal and abnormal behavior?

How do you select a topic for a research paper in psychology?

To select a topic for a research paper in psychology, start by identifying your area of interest within the field. Consider the latest research and trends in psychology and choose a relevant and interesting topic. Consult with your professor or academic advisor for guidance and suggestions, and narrow down your options based on your assignment’s scope, research goals, and available resources.

What are the 5 categories of abnormal psychology?

The five categories of abnormal psychology are (1) Anxiety Disorders, which include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder; (2) Mood Disorders, which include Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder; (3) Personality Disorders, which include Borderline Personality Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder; (4) Psychotic Disorders, which include Schizophrenia and Delusional Disorder; and (5) Dissociative Disorders, which include Dissociative Identity Disorder and Depersonalization Disorder.

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Education Related Topics

Abnormal Psychology Research Topics

Abnormal Psychology Research Topics: Abnormal psychology delves into the intricate realm of psychological disorders and deviations from the norm, offering a comprehensive exploration of the complexities that underlie human mental health. This field encompasses the study of a diverse array of conditions, ranging from mood disorders to personality disorders, providing invaluable insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of these disturbances. Research within abnormal psychology sheds light on the multifaceted nature of human suffering, offering hope for effective interventions and strategies to alleviate the burdens of psychological distress.

What Is Abnormality in Psychology

In psychology, “abnormality” refers to behavior, thoughts, or feelings that deviate significantly from the typical or expected patterns within a given culture or context. It involves a departure from the norm in terms of what is considered normal or socially acceptable behavior. Abnormality can manifest in various ways and may encompass a range of psychological, emotional, and behavioral characteristics.

It’s important to note that the concept of abnormality is not always straightforward and can be influenced by cultural, social, and historical factors. What is considered abnormal in one culture or context might be considered normal in another. Therefore, the determination of abnormality often takes into account the degree of deviation from the norm, the level of distress or impairment experienced by the individual, and the impact of the behavior on their daily functioning and well-being.

Psychologists and mental health professionals use various criteria and diagnostic frameworks to assess and classify abnormal behavior. These may include:

Statistical Rarity: Behavior that is statistically infrequent or uncommon within a given population might be considered abnormal. However, this criterion alone may not be sufficient, as some uncommon behaviors (e.g., exceptional talents) are not necessarily indicative of psychological disorders.
Subjective Distress: If an individual experiences significant emotional distress, discomfort, or unhappiness as a result of their behavior, thoughts, or emotions, it might be considered abnormal.
Impairment: Abnormal behavior often interferes with an individual’s ability to function effectively in daily life. This impairment can be social, occupational, or educational.
Deviation from Social Norms: Behavior that goes against the prevailing cultural or societal norms may be labeled as abnormal. However, cultural relativism emphasizes that this criterion should be considered within the context of the individual’s culture.
Maladaptive Behavior: Behavior that is counterproductive, harmful, or leads to negative outcomes for the individual or those around them may be considered abnormal.
Dangerousness: If a person’s behavior poses a risk of harm to themselves or others, it may be considered abnormal, particularly in cases of severe and uncontrollable behavior.

It’s important to approach the concept of abnormality with sensitivity and avoid stigmatization of individuals who may exhibit behaviors or characteristics that deviate from the norm. Mental health professionals conduct thorough assessments and evaluations to determine whether a person’s behavior or experiences are indicative of a psychological disorder and to provide appropriate support, treatment, and intervention if needed.

List of Abnormal Psychology Research Topics:

Depression and its Multifaceted Causes: Explore the biological, psychological, and environmental factors contributing to depression and investigate innovative treatment approaches.

Anxiety Disorders and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions: Examine different anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety, and evaluate the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapies.

Schizophrenia: Neurobiological Mechanisms and Treatment Advances: Study the neurobiology of schizophrenia, investigate genetic and environmental influences, and analyze emerging treatment modalities.

Bipolar Disorder and Mood Stabilization: Investigate the physiological underpinnings of bipolar disorder, assess the role of medication and psychotherapy, and explore strategies for mood stabilization.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Exposure Therapy: Explore the mechanisms of OCD, analyze the efficacy of exposure and response prevention therapy, and consider alternative treatment options.

Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Examine the psychological effects of trauma, investigate the neurobiological basis of PTSD, and explore trauma-focused interventions.

Personality Disorders: Diagnosis and Therapeutic Approaches: Study various personality disorders, such as borderline, narcissistic, and antisocial personality disorders, and assess therapeutic strategies.

Eating Disorders: Psychological Factors and Treatment Modalities: Investigate the psychological factors underlying anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, and evaluate treatment options.

Substance Use Disorders and Relapse Prevention: Examine the psychological mechanisms of addiction, assess relapse prevention strategies, and explore the role of behavioral interventions.

Research Topics in Abnormal Psychology

Dissociative Disorders and Identity Integration: Study dissociative identity disorder (DID) and related disorders, explore the integration of identities, and assess therapeutic techniques.

Suicidal Behavior and Prevention Strategies: Investigate the psychological factors contributing to suicidal ideation and behaviors, and evaluate suicide prevention programs.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches: Examine the cognitive distortions and body image concerns in body dysmorphic disorder, and assess cognitive-behavioral interventions.

Hoarding Disorder and Cognitive Remediation: Explore the cognitive deficits in hoarding disorder, analyze the neurocognitive processes involved, and evaluate cognitive remediation techniques.

Gender Dysphoria and Psychological Well-Being: Study the psychological experiences of individuals with gender dysphoria, explore gender-affirming interventions, and assess mental health outcomes.

Childhood Disorders: Early Intervention and Long-Term Outcomes: Investigate early intervention strategies for childhood disorders, such as ADHD and conduct disorder, and evaluate their impact on long-term outcomes.

Cultural Considerations in Abnormal Psychology: Examine cultural variations in the presentation and perception of psychological disorders, and assess culturally sensitive treatment approaches.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Therapeutic Interventions: Study neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, and evaluate behavioral and pharmacological interventions.

Dual Diagnosis: Co-Occurring Substance Use and Mental Disorders: Explore the challenges of dual diagnosis, assess integrated treatment approaches, and examine the effectiveness of interventions.

Mood Disorders in Adolescents: Identification and Support: Investigate the unique presentation of mood disorders in adolescents, assess diagnostic tools, and explore strategies for providing support.

Emerging Digital Interventions in Abnormal Psychology: Examine the use of digital platforms, apps, and virtual reality in delivering psychological interventions for various disorders.

These abnormal psychology research topics provide a glimpse into the diverse range of inquiries that researchers can explore within this field. By addressing these topics, researchers contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex nature of psychological disorders and pave the way for advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

Steve George is Blogger, a marketer and content writer. He has B.A. in Economics from the University of Washington. Read more about Mzuri Mag .

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Jutta joormann appointed richard ely foundation professor of psychology.

Jutta Joormann, who has done groundbreaking research on the identification of cognitive risk factors for depression and the role of emotion regulation in psychopathology, was recently appointed the Richard Ely Foundation Professor of Psychology, effective immediately.

She is a member of Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) in the Department of Psychology.

Joormann works in the area of clinical psychology. In her work, Joormann examines attention and memory processes in depression and how these are linked to rumination and emotion dysregulation. She integrates numerous measures, including cognitive tasks, psychophysiological measures of stress reactivity and regulation, eye tracking, neuroendocrine assessments, and brain imaging. In her more recent work, she examines familial risk for depression and anxiety by comparing adolescents with and without a family history of psychopathology on measures of cognition and emotion regulation. She has published more than 200 peer-reviewed articles in top journals in her fields, and she has contributed more than 30 book chapters to numerous edited volumes as well as published four books.

A faculty member at Yale since 2014, Joormann serves as chair of the Department of Psychology and director of the Affect and Regulation and Cognition Lab, whose primary research goal is to gain a better understanding of how basic cognitive processes and individual differences in emotion and mood regulation increase the risk for the onset of depression and anxiety disorders by examining people diagnosed with clinical disorders but also adolescents at high risk for developing clinical levels of anxiety and depression.

Joormann has also mentored dozens of graduate students and supervised numerous post-doctoral fellows. Her classes include seminars and lectures on cognition, emotion, and psychopathology including the introductory “Clinical Psychology” lecture for undergraduate students.

Her global contributions to her field have been extensive. She has given numerous conference keynotes and invited presentations at conferences and institutions around the world. In addition, she served as a member on various editorial boards including for Cognitive Therapy and Research and Clinical Psychological Science. For over 10 years she was an associate editor of the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, the flagship journal in the field of clinical psychology, and currently serves as associate editor for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology . Joormann also has served as president for the Society for Research in Psychopathology. Her work has been funded by the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) and the U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation.

Joormann earned her Ph.D. at Freie Universität Berlin.

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Abnormal brain structure identified in children with developmental language problems

A rigorous analysis of numerous studies concludes that a part of the brain traditionally associated with movement is abnormal in children with developmental language impairments, according to Georgetown University Medical Center neuroscientists. The discovery has the potential to improve both the diagnosis and treatment of the language difficulties.

The researchers investigated brain abnormalities in developmental language disorder. This condition, which impacts the development of various aspects of language, is about as common as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia, and more prevalent than autism. The scientists found that abnormalities occurred specifically in the anterior neostriatum within the basal ganglia, a structure found deep in the brain. They describe their findings in Nature Human Behaviour on March 15.

To better understand why the language impairments occur, the researchers analyzed the results of 22 articles examining brain structures in people with the disorder, and then employed a new computational method to identify common patterns of abnormalities across the studies. They determined that the anterior neostriatum was abnormal in 100% of the studies that examined the structure, with fewer abnormalities in all other parts of the brain.

"We hope that by identifying the neural bases of developmental language difficulties we may help increase awareness of a major, but also rather unrecognized, disorder," says the study's lead author Michael T. Ullman, PhD, professor of neuroscience and director of the Brain and Language Laboratory at Georgetown University Medical Center. "We caution, however, that further research is necessary to understand exactly how the anterior neostriatum might lead to the language difficulties."

Ullman says the findings underscore the potential utility of drugs that are known to improve movement impairments due to basal ganglia dysfunction, such as those that act on dopamine receptors. Interventions that encourage compensation by intact brain structures may also be useful. Additionally, basal ganglia abnormalities could potentially serve as early biomarkers of an increased likelihood of developmental language problems. Such early warning signs could trigger further diagnostic procedures, potentially leading to early therapy.

"Continuing research efforts to further understand the neurobiology of developmental language disorder, especially the role of the basal ganglia, could help the many children who are affected by these problems," concludes Ullman.

In addition to Ullman, other authors at Georgetown include Mariel Pullman, Jarrett Lovelett, Xiong Jiang, and Peter Turkeltaub. Gillian Clark was at Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia. Elizabeth Pierpont is at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis.

This work was supported by NIH grants R01 HD049347 and R21 HD 087088; NSF grants BCS 1439290 and BCS 1940980; and funding from the Mabel H. Flory Trust.

The authors declare no personal financial interests related to the study.

Attention Deficit Disorder
Birth Defects
Children's Health
Brain Tumor
Learning Disorders
Language Acquisition
Child Development
Psycholinguistics
Language acquisition
Great Ape language
Asperger syndrome
Body language
Developmental psychology

Story Source:

Materials provided by Georgetown University Medical Center . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Michael T. Ullman, Gillian M. Clark, Mariel Y. Pullman, Jarrett T. Lovelett, Elizabeth I. Pierpont, Xiong Jiang, Peter E. Turkeltaub. The neuroanatomy of developmental language disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Nature Human Behaviour , 2024; DOI: 10.1038/s41562-024-01843-6

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Cardiac amyloidosis: New AI system developed for early diagnosis

by Medical University of Vienna

Cardiac amyloidosis is a serious disease in which abnormal proteins (amyloids) accumulate in the heart muscle and impair heart function. As the disease leads to serious complications such as heart insufficiency and, in many cases, death if left untreated, early diagnosis is essential in order to start treatment in good time.

An international research team led by MedUni Vienna has now developed and tested an AI system that can be used to automatically and reliably detect cardiac amyloidosis. The results of the study have just been published in The Lancet Digital Health .

The new AI system was developed and validated using data sets from 16,000 patients who underwent a scintigraphy imaging examination at nine institutions in Europe and Asia, including Vienna General Hospital, between 2010 and 2020. Scintigraphy is a nuclear medicine procedure that is used to diagnose cancer, thyroid, kidney and heart disease , among other things.

The new AI tool created as part of the research work led by Christian Nitsche (MedUni Vienna's Department of Medicine II) and Marcus Hacker (MedUni Vienna's Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy) can automatically recognize cardiac amyloidosis during a scintigraphy, thereby significantly speeding up the diagnosis.

At least as reliable as doctors

The AI application was not only developed as part of the large-scale study, but also tested for accuracy compared to the diagnostic performance of doctors. "We found that the system can consistently recognize cardiac amyloidosis at least as reliably as medical experts ," report lead authors Clemens Spielvogel and David Haberl from MedUni Vienna's Department of of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy.

The research team also analyzed possible correlations between the diagnoses made by the AI system and the occurrence of heart failure and the risk of death. It was found that scintigraphy patients in whom the AI system predicts cardiac amyloidosis have twice the risk of death and a more than 17-fold higher risk of heart failure than patients without such a result.

Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare and often late-diagnosed but serious disease that can hide behind heart insufficiency, for example, more often than previously thought. In 2020, disease-modifying therapies that can halt the progression of cardiac amyloidosis were approved in the European Union for the first time. However, since existing protein deposits and thus the disease cannot be reversed, early and precise diagnosis plays an important role for patients.

"In the future, our findings and the technology we have developed could enable screening for cardiac amyloidosis among all scintigraphy patients, with the AI system evaluating the image data in parallel with doctors," says Clemens Spielvogel.

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