Question

The vulnerability-stress model of schizophrenia proposes that the initial predisposition of vulnerability to schizophrenia stems from which of the following?

a) Genetic factors
b) Environmental stressors
c) Neurotransmitter imbalances
d) Childhood trauma

Answer 1

The vulnerability-stress model of schizophrenia emphasizes the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental stressors. A pivotal study indicated that individuals with genetic risk are more likely to develop schizophrenia when exposed to disturbed home environments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The vulnerability-stress model of schizophrenia suggests that a predisposition to schizophrenia is due to a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors.

Specifically, the model takes into account that genetic factors alone are not sufficient to cause the disorder; it is the interaction between these genetic factors and certain environmental triggers that is key to the development of schizophrenia. A study by Tienari et al. found that adoptees with a high genetic risk (biological mothers with schizophrenia) were significantly more likely to develop schizophrenia if they were raised in disturbed home environments compared to those raised in healthy environments. This demonstrates the importance of both genetic predisposition and environmental factors in the onset of the disorder.