Class 12 Psychology - HARYANA

Psychological Disorders

The chapter 'Psychological Disorders' in Class 12 Psychology explores the historical background of abnormality, the criteria used to define psychological disorders, and the various classification systems like the DSM and ICD. Students learn about the major categories of disorders such as anxiety disorders, somatic symptom disorders, dissociative disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and neurodevelopmental disorders. For Haryana (BSEH) board exams, understanding these clinical conditions along with their symptoms and causal factors is crucial. This chapter builds a scientific foundation for recognizing mental health issues, reducing stigma, and understanding the basics of clinical psychology.

Start Learning Free

Key Concepts

Abnormality and the 4 D's

Abnormal behavior is typically evaluated using the four D's: Deviance, Distress, Dysfunction, and Danger, which help distinguish normal variations from clinical disorders.

DSM and ICD Classification

Standardized diagnostic systems like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) help mental health professionals classify and diagnose psychological disorders uniformly.

Anxiety Disorders

A group of disorders characterized by chronic, disabling anxiety, panic attacks, or specific phobias that interfere with normal daily functioning.

Schizophrenia

A severe psychotic disorder characterized by major disturbances in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior, often involving hallucinations and delusions.

Depressive and Bipolar Disorders

Mood disorders involving extreme emotional states, ranging from persistent sadness and loss of interest in depression to alternating cycles of mania and depression in bipolar disorder.

Important Formulas

Maladaptive Behavior = Behavior that interferes with optimal functioning and daily adaptation
Biopsychosocial Approach = Biological Factors + Psychological Factors + Social Factors affecting mental health
Vulnerability-Stress (Diathesis-Stress) Model = Predisposing Vulnerability (Diathesis) + Precipitating Stressors = Onset of Disorder

Board Exam Info

In the Haryana (BSEH) Class 12 Psychology board exam, this chapter carries significant weight (around 6 to 8 marks). Questions typically include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), very short answer questions defining specific disorders, and short/long answer questions explaining the causes or symptoms of major disorders like anxiety, schizophrenia, or depression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between normal sadness and clinical depression?

Normal sadness is a temporary emotional reaction to a difficult life event, whereas clinical depression involves persistent and intense feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and loss of interest lasting for at least two weeks, severely disrupting daily life.

Are psychological disorders curable?

Yes, many psychological disorders are treatable and manageable through a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, enabling individuals to lead productive lives.

What causes psychological disorders according to modern psychology?

Modern psychology uses the diathesis-stress model, which suggests disorders arise from a combination of biological vulnerabilities (genetics), psychological factors (coping styles), and environmental stressors.

Learn Psychological Disorders with Your AI Tutor

10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.

Lecture

Key Points

Interactive

Quiz

Flashcards

Start Learning Free

More Psychology Chapters - HARYANA Class 12