Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

How does the DSM-5 define a "Psychological Stressor"?

1. A life event or life change associated with mental disorder onset

2. A chemical or biological agent affecting mental disorders

3. A sign or symptom of a mental disorder that precedes diagnosis

4. An emotional factor that disrupts physiological equilibrium

The correct answer is: A life event or life change associated with mental disorder onset

The DSM-5 defines a "Psychological Stressor" in terms of its relationship to life events or life changes that can lead to the onset of a mental disorder. This understanding underscores the impact that significant life events, such as trauma, loss, or major changes, can have on an individual's mental health. Such stressors are often crucial in understanding the development of various psychological disorders, as they can trigger or exacerbate pre-existing vulnerabilities in a person. By focusing on life events or changes, the definition highlights how external factors can interact with an individual’s psychological state, influencing their mental health outcomes. This perspective is essential for clinicians when assessing clients, as recognizing the role of psychological stressors can guide treatment and intervention strategies effectively. Other answer choices, while they touch on relevant concepts, do not encapsulate the definition of a psychological stressor as outlined in the DSM-5. For example, the idea of a chemical or biological agent pertains more to the biological aspect of mental illnesses rather than psychological stressors. Likewise, signs or symptoms of mental disorders indicate manifestations of conditions rather than stressors themselves. Lastly, mentioning an emotional factor disrupting physiological equilibrium leans more toward psychophysiological contexts rather than specifically understanding stressors in the scope of