How does the diathesis-stress model explain the development of psychological disorders?

• A. It suggests that stress is the only factor in disorder development
• B. It proposes that individual experiences play no role
• C. It indicates that a predisposition may lead to disorders when exposed to stressors
• D. It denies any biological factors affecting psychological disorders

Answer: (C)

The diathesis-stress model is a psychological theory that explains how psychological disorders can develop through the interaction of predispositional factors (diathesis) and environmental stressors. According to this model, an individual's biological, psychological, or genetic predisposition is a critical factor that can make them more vulnerable to developing a psychological disorder. However, this vulnerability does not guarantee the onset of the disorder; rather, it emphasizes that a certain level of stress or adverse experiences is often necessary to trigger the development of the condition.

The correct choice points out that a predisposition may lead to disorders when exposed to stressors. This reflects the essential concept of the model: both an inherent vulnerability (the diathesis) and an external stressor must typically be present for a psychological disorder to manifest. For example, a person with a genetic susceptibility to anxiety may never experience an anxiety disorder unless they encounter significant life stressors, such as trauma or chronic stress, that push them towards that threshold.

This understanding highlights the importance of considering both biological and environmental factors in the assessment of mental health, providing a comprehensive view of how complex, multifactorial processes can contribute to the onset of psychological illnesses.