Critics argue that the heavy focus on improving the consistency of psychodiagnosis has drawn attention away from an equally basic issue - the validity of the diagnostic categories. Recent editions of the DSM sparked controversy by adding everyday problems that are not traditionally thought of as mental illnesses to the diagnostic system. Shifting definitions of normality and abnormality inevitably affect estimates regarding the number of people who suffer from psychological disorders. Summarize data on the prevalence of various psychological disorders. Describe four types of anxiety disorders.
Anxiety disorders are a class of disorders marked by feelings of excessive apprehension and anxiety.
Discuss the contribution of biological factors and conditioning to the etiology of anxiety disorders. Connections have been found between anxiety disorders and mitral valve prolapse . Anxiety sensitivity may make people vulnerable to anxiety disorders. Discuss the contribution of cognitive factors and stress to the etiology of anxiety disorders. Cognitive theorists maintain that certain styles of thinking make some people particularly vulnerable to anxiety disorders.