PYC4802 – Psychopathology | January/February 2026 Supplementary
Exam Memo (UNISA South Africa)
,Question 1
Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of Major Depressive Disorder?
A) Euphoric mood
B) Increased energy
C) Persistent sadness
D) Hallucinations
Correct Option: C) Persistent sadness
Rationale:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is primarily characterized by a persistent feeling of
sadness or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. This symptom must be
present for at least two weeks and is a central feature of MDD.
Question 2
What is a common feature of anxiety disorders?
A) Delusions
B) Compulsions
C) Excessive worry
D) Mood swings
Correct Option: C) Excessive worry
Rationale:
Excessive worry is a hallmark of anxiety disorders, particularly Generalized Anxiety
Disorder (GAD), where individuals find it difficult to control their anxiety about various
aspects of life. This worry often leads to significant impairment in daily functioning.
Question 3
In which disorder is the "re-experiencing" of traumatic events a defining feature?
A) Generalized Anxiety Disorder
B) Bipolar Disorder
C) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
D) Schizophrenia
Correct Option: C) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Rationale:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterized by re-experiencing symptoms
such as flashbacks or nightmares related to a traumatic event. This symptom can
severely affect an individual’s ability to function in everyday life.
, Question 4
Which psychological model emphasizes the role of childhood experiences in the
development of psychopathology?
A) Psychodynamic model
B) Behavioral model
C) Cognitive model
D) Humanistic model
Correct Option: A) Psychodynamic model
Rationale:
The psychodynamic model, founded by Sigmund Freud, posits that unresolved conflicts
from childhood can lead to various psychological disorders. It emphasizes the influence
of the unconscious mind and early life experiences on mental health.
Question 5
What is the primary focus of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
A) Uncovering repressed memories
B) Establishing a therapeutic alliance
C) Understanding past traumas
D) Changing negative thought patterns
Correct Option: D) Changing negative thought patterns
Rationale:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) primarily focuses on identifying and changing
negative thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals develop coping strategies
to deal with specific problems and improve their emotional well-being.
Question 6
Which of the following disorders is characterized by a significant fear of social
situations?
A) Generalized Anxiety Disorder
B) Bipolar Disorder
C) Social Anxiety Disorder
D) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Correct Option: C) Social Anxiety Disorder
Rationale:
Social Anxiety Disorder is characterized by an intense fear of social interactions and
Exam Memo (UNISA South Africa)
,Question 1
Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of Major Depressive Disorder?
A) Euphoric mood
B) Increased energy
C) Persistent sadness
D) Hallucinations
Correct Option: C) Persistent sadness
Rationale:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is primarily characterized by a persistent feeling of
sadness or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. This symptom must be
present for at least two weeks and is a central feature of MDD.
Question 2
What is a common feature of anxiety disorders?
A) Delusions
B) Compulsions
C) Excessive worry
D) Mood swings
Correct Option: C) Excessive worry
Rationale:
Excessive worry is a hallmark of anxiety disorders, particularly Generalized Anxiety
Disorder (GAD), where individuals find it difficult to control their anxiety about various
aspects of life. This worry often leads to significant impairment in daily functioning.
Question 3
In which disorder is the "re-experiencing" of traumatic events a defining feature?
A) Generalized Anxiety Disorder
B) Bipolar Disorder
C) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
D) Schizophrenia
Correct Option: C) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Rationale:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterized by re-experiencing symptoms
such as flashbacks or nightmares related to a traumatic event. This symptom can
severely affect an individual’s ability to function in everyday life.
, Question 4
Which psychological model emphasizes the role of childhood experiences in the
development of psychopathology?
A) Psychodynamic model
B) Behavioral model
C) Cognitive model
D) Humanistic model
Correct Option: A) Psychodynamic model
Rationale:
The psychodynamic model, founded by Sigmund Freud, posits that unresolved conflicts
from childhood can lead to various psychological disorders. It emphasizes the influence
of the unconscious mind and early life experiences on mental health.
Question 5
What is the primary focus of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
A) Uncovering repressed memories
B) Establishing a therapeutic alliance
C) Understanding past traumas
D) Changing negative thought patterns
Correct Option: D) Changing negative thought patterns
Rationale:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) primarily focuses on identifying and changing
negative thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals develop coping strategies
to deal with specific problems and improve their emotional well-being.
Question 6
Which of the following disorders is characterized by a significant fear of social
situations?
A) Generalized Anxiety Disorder
B) Bipolar Disorder
C) Social Anxiety Disorder
D) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Correct Option: C) Social Anxiety Disorder
Rationale:
Social Anxiety Disorder is characterized by an intense fear of social interactions and
