1. PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDERS

2. What is a psychological disorder?
A psychological or mental disorder is a pattern of behavioral and psychological symptoms that causes significant personal distress, impairs the ability to function in one or more important areas of daily life, or both.

3. Models/Theories Used to Explain Psychological Disorders
Medical Model – emphasizes biochemical and physiological problems associated with the disorder. Believes there is an underlying pathology of an organ or brain and that is can often be treated with medications.
Psychosocial Model – belief that disorders result from a history of difficulties or unfavorable personal experiences.
Socio-cultural Model – belief that social norms influences definitions of abnormality. Personality is shaped by the constraints and contexts of norms in society.
Bio-Psycho-Social Perspective – Combines important elements of the above three models.

4. DSM-IV-TR Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth ed, Text Revision
This is the text published by the American Psychiatric Association that describes the specific symptoms and diagnostic guidelines for different psychological disorders. It represents a consensus (agreement) of a wide range of mental health professionals and organizations. It includes the symptoms and the exact criteria that must be met in making a diagnosis.