, Biological Dimension
Genetics, Epigenetics, Brain
Anatomy, Biochemical Processes,
Central Nervous System Function-
ing, Autonomic Nervous System
Reactivity, etc.
Psychological Dimension
Sociocultural Dimension
Personality, Cognition, Emotions,
Race, Gender, Sexual Orientation, MENTAL Learning, Coping Skills,
Religion, Socioeconomic Status, DISORDER Self-Esteem, Self-Efficacy, Values,
Ethnicity, Culture, etc.
Early Experiences, etc.
Social Dimension
Family, Interpersonal Relationships,
Social Support, Marital Status,
Community Connections, etc.
Multipath Model of Mental Disorders
The multipath model operates under several assumptions:
• No one theoretical perspective is adequate to explain the
complexity of the human condition and the development of
mental disorders.
• There are multiple pathways to and influences on the development
of any single disorder. Explanations of abnormal behavior must
consider biological, psychological, social, and sociocultural
elements.
• Not all dimensions contribute equally to a disorder. In the case of
some disorders, current research suggests that certain etiological
forces have the strongest influence on the development of the
specific disorder. Additionally, our understanding of mental
disorders often evolves as further investigation provides new
insight into contributing factors.
• The multipath model is integrative and interactive. It acknowledges
that factors may combine in complex and reciprocal ways so that
people exposed to the same influences may not develop the same
disorder and that different individuals exposed to different factors
may develop similar mental disorders.
• The biological and psychological strengths and assets of a person
and positive aspects of the person’s social and sociocultural
environment can help protect against psychopathology, minimize
symptoms, or facilitate recovery from mental illness.
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Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
, Biological Dimension
• Reduced genetic vulnerability to
stress
• Maintain physical fitness
• Consume a healthy diet
• Moderate alcohol consumption
• Avoid cigarettes and other
harmful substances
• Minimize exposure to environ-
mental toxins
• Maintain physical safety
Psychological Dimension
Sociocultural Dimension RESILIENCE • Positive outlook
• Supportive social institutions • Maintaining Emotional Equilibrium • Gratitude
• Safe and caring communities • Coping with Stress and Hardship • Coping and problem-solving skills
• Spirituality and religion • Facing Adversity with Strength • Mindfulness
• Cultural group identification • Recovering from Trauma • Cognitive flexibility
• Gender and racial/ethnic • Recovering from Mental Illness • Emotional regulation
equality • Meaning and purpose in life
• Cultural connections • Perceived personal control
Social Dimension
• Connection with significant
others
• Meaningful social relations
• Ability to seek help from others
• Sense of belonging
• Community involvement
• Understanding the power of
media messages
Copyright 2022 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.