2. Module 38 Psychological Disorders in Perspective Chapter 12 Essentials of Understanding Psychology- Sixth Edition PSY110 Psychology © Richard Goldman November 21, 2006

3. How common are Psychological Disorders? 48% of Americans will experience a psychological disorder in their lifetime. 30% of Americans will experience a psychological disorder in each year Most Common: 1. Depression (17% Lifetime – 10% Year) 2. Alcohol Dependence (7% Year) 3. Drug Dependency 4. Panic Disorders 5. Post Traumatic Stress

4. Cross-Cultural Differences Likelihood of Depression in Lifetime:  1.5%Taiwan  2.9%Korea  11.6%New Zealand  16.4%France

5. Normal verses Abnormal PMS (Premenstrual syndrome) or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder  Characterized by: Severe mood changes Depression  Normal female behavior  Included in DSM-IV-TR (should it be?)

6. Cross-Cultural Differences Do you have a psychological problems if:  You hear voices of the dead?  God speaks to you? Do diseases such a schizophrenia manifest in the same manner in all cultures?  India – 80% of schizophrenic patients are cationic Are diseases such anorexia nervosa found in all societies?  India – anorexia nervosa does not exist Have you ever heard of Koro (intense fear of the testicles being drawn into the abdomen) in America?  Normally only found in Southwest Asian males

7. Medical Student’s Disease Feeling that you suffer from the same sorts of problems that you are studying.  Easy to jump to conclusions  The line between normal and abnormal is very fuzzy  Everyone experience a wide range of emotions from time to time – This is normal  Persistent or extremely severe swings may not normal

8. When Should You Seek Help Long-term feelings of distress that interferes with your sense of well-being Occasions of overwhelming high stress Prolonged depression – sense of helplessness Withdrawal from other people Chronic physical symptoms without a physical problem Phobias that interfere with normal activities Fear that people are out to get you Inability to effectively interact with others