Discussion: Factors That Influence the Development of Psychopathology

Explain the biological (genetic and neuroscientific); psychological (behavioral and cognitive processes, emotional, developmental)

Discussion: Factors That Influence the Development of Psychopathology

In many realms of medicine, objective diagnoses can be made: A clavicula is broken.  An infection is present. TSH levels meet the diagnostic criteria for hypothyroidism. Psychiatry, on the other hand, deals with psychological phenomena and behaviors. Can these, too, be “defined objectively and by scientific criteria (Gergen, 1985), or are they social constructions?” (Sadock et al., 2015).

Thanks to myriad advances during recent decades, we know that psychopathology is caused by many interacting factors. Theoretical and clinical contributions to the field have come from the neural sciences, genetics, psychology, and social-cultural sciences. How do these factors impact the expression, classification, diagnosis, and prevalence of psychopathology, and why might it be important for a nurse practitioner to take a multidimensional, integrative approach?

To Prepare:

• Review this week’s Learning Resources, considering the many interacting factors that contribute to the development of psychopathology.
• Consider how theoretical perspective on psychopathology impacts the work of the PMHNP.

Explain the biological (genetic and neuroscientific); psychological (behavioral and cognitive processes, emotional, developmental); and social, cultural, and interpersonal factors that influence the development of psychopathology.

Expert Answer and Explanation

Factors which Impact the Development of Psychopathology

It is important for psychiatrists and counselors to understand the origin and features of the disorders of mental health. The study of these disorders in terms of genesis and manifestation is known as psychopathology, and it helps make sense of the experiences of people with mental health issues. Through this study, still, experts in psychiatry are able to explain the genesis of behavioral abnormalities, and use the patient’s subject data to understand the patient’s needs.

However, the term may also mean the features or manifestations of maladaptive behaviors (Brune, 2015). The manifestations and features of mental disorders differ across individuals considering that they are affected by various factors including biological factors as discussed in this paper.

The Effect of the Biological Factors

Biological factors affect the diagnosis, classification and expression of the psychopathology. A gene is a predisposing factor for certain maladaptive behaviors, and the current research studies link certain personality disorders to genes. This implies that a parent can transmit certain mental health features to their offspring. The impact of the biological factors on psychopathology can be understand from the neuro-scientific perspective.

The brain plays a crucial role in terms of balancing emotions, and moods. The capacity of the brain to function effectively in this case depends on the neurotransmission process. If the neurotransmitters fail to act effectively, this can alter one’s moods as well as their behaviors (Pezzoli,  Antfolk, & Santtila, 2017). Therefore, the biological factors can affect the expression, diagnosis and categorization of mental disorders.

The Impact of Psychological Factors

A number of psychological factors can equally influence the psychopathology development. A person’s emotions can alter their behaviors in different ways. For instance, negative emotions which lead to stress and depression can impact the diagnosis and expression of a disorder such as a personality disorder. The psychological development occur in stages, and while most people would undergo normal development, some take time to attain cognitive, intellectual and emotional maturity.

Delayed psychological development is associated with manifestations such as maladaptive behaviors. These factors in addition to the emotional experience can shape how a person behaves or their cognitive status (Abdul Manaf et al., 2016). This can in turn lead to the variation in diagnosis and classification of the mental health issues.

The Effect of Social, Cultural and Interpersonal Factors on Psychopathology

The psychopathology development can change depending on the cultural and social environment as well the interpersonal factors. People’s beliefs tied to their cultures can affect the manner in which they cope with stressful events. Linking a mental health issue to a curse, for instance, can further exacerbate the disorder. The environment in which a person lives or is brought up can also shape the development of psychopathology. Living in an abusive home, for example, can cause serious cognitive problems, and cause the change in the way a person behaves (Luby, 2017). Furthermore, interpersonal interactions can shape the development of psychopathology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a wide spectrum of factors can influence the development of psychopathology. Neurotransmitters and genetics are some of the biological factors which can impact this development by respectively causing the alteration of behaviors, and impacting the personality traits. Emotions and other psychological factors can equally play a key role in this case considering that they affect people’s behaviors, and their cognitive wellbeing. Other factors include the beliefs people hold about mental health.

References

Abdul Manaf, M.R., Mustafa, M., Abdul Rahman, M.R., Yusof, K.H., Abd Aziz,N.A. (2016). Factors Influencing the Prevalence of Mental Health Problems among Malay Elderly Residing in a Rural Community: A Cross-Sectional Study. PLoS ONE 11(6).Doi: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0156937.

Brune, M. (2015). Textbook of evolutionary psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine – the origin. Oxford:
Oxford University Press.

Devkota, .G, Basnet, P., Thapa B.,  & Subedi, M. (2021). Factors affecting utilization of mental health services from Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities of western hilly district of Nepal. PLoS ONE 16(4).Doi: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0250694.

Luby, J. L. (2017). Handbook of preschool mental health, second edition – development, disorder.New York: Guilford Publications.

Pezzoli, P., Antfolk, J., & Santtila, P. (2017). Phenotypic factor analysis of psychopathology reveals a new body-related transdiagnostic factor. PLoS ONE 12(5).Doi: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0177674.

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FAQs

What are the biological factors that influence the development of psychopathology?

Biological factors that influence the development of psychopathology include:

1. Genetics – Inherited traits can increase vulnerability to mental disorders.

2. Brain structure and function – Abnormalities in brain areas (e.g., prefrontal cortex, amygdala) can affect behavior and emotions.

3. Neurotransmitter imbalances – Disruptions in chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

4. Hormonal influences – Hormonal changes (e.g., cortisol, thyroid hormones) can affect mood and mental health.

5. Prenatal and perinatal factors – Exposure to toxins, infections, or complications during pregnancy and birth may impact brain development.

6. Injury or illness – Traumatic brain injury, infections, or chronic illness can lead to psychological changes.

These biological influences often interact with psychological and environmental factors in the development of mental health disorders.

What are the social cultural and interpersonal factors that influence the development of psychopathology?

Social, cultural, and interpersonal factors that influence the development of psychopathology include:

1. Family dynamics – Dysfunctional relationships, abuse, or neglect can lead to emotional and behavioral issues.

2. Trauma and stress – Experiences such as violence, poverty, or loss can increase vulnerability to mental illness.

3. Cultural beliefs and stigma – Cultural attitudes about mental health can affect how symptoms are perceived, expressed, and treated.

4. Social support – Lack of supportive relationships can contribute to isolation, depression, or anxiety.

5. Discrimination and marginalization – Social exclusion or prejudice based on race, gender, or sexual orientation can negatively impact mental health.

6. Peer relationships – Bullying, peer pressure, or social rejection may trigger or worsen mental health conditions.

7. Socioeconomic status – Low income or unstable living conditions can increase stress and limit access to care.

These factors often interact with biological influences to shape the risk and expression of psychopathological disorders.

Required Readings

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