IB Psychology: Options Revision

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Are mental disorders simply a lack of willpower?

Options is a core part of IB Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

Statistical infreq.Behaviour rare in population

Deviation social normsBehaviour breaks cultural rules

Failure to functionUnable to manage daily life

Ideal mental healthJahoda 1958 — what's missing

DSM-5APA 2013 classification system

ICD-11WHO 2019 classification system

Positive symptomExcess: hallucinations, delusions

Negative symptomDeficit: avolition, alogia, flat affect

Dopamine hypothesisExcess dopamine activity in mesolimbic

Diathesis-stressGenetic risk × environmental trigger

AntipsychoticDrug blocking dopamine D2 receptors

Expressed emotionFamily hostility, criticism, over-involvement

MDDMajor depressive disorder

Serotonin hypothesisLow 5-HT linked to depression

Learn Options step by step

Free interactive mini-lessons: short screens, worked examples and quick checks. Pick your exam board to open its course map, then tap L on this topic:

HL SL

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

Are mental disorders simply a lack of willpower?✗ Yes, they are just a personal choice or weakness. ✓ No — they have biological, cognitive and environmental causes.

Can psychological disorders be treated effectively?✗ No, disorders can never improve. ✓ Yes — therapies like CBT and other treatments are effective.

Practise Options — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie ▶ Reveal Race ▶ Connections Grid ▶ Falling Words ▶ Word Web

See all 22 games in the Revision Arcade →

Options

Key concepts

Common mistakes to avoid

Practise Options — free games

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