PSYCH 131 MIDTERM 1 UC BERKELEY
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Updated 2026 Questions and Answers
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,Homotypic Continuity A type of continuity in which traits/behaviors are continuous throughout development (IE
depression predicts depression)
For ADHD Example: impulsivity at age 2, 4, 6 will predict impulsivity at age 16
Heterotypic Continuity A type of continuity in which a core tendency may persist but has different manifestations
over development
CD Example: core of "aggression" may be swearing in 2nd grade, fighting in 6th grade,
delinquency in high school, and partner abuse in 20s
epigenetics the study of how the environment can turn certain genes "on or off"Environment (outer &
inner) activates genes!
Extremely complex: genes stay the same across development, but chemical changes near
the gene site (e.g., phosphorylation; methylation) can lead to gene expression
ex) For instance, researchers have found differences in DNA methylation patterns
between identical twins, which can influence gene expression and contribute to
phenotypic differences, such as susceptibility to diseases or variations in behavior.
Studies have shown that environmental factors, such as diet, stress, and exposure to
toxins, can influence epigenetic modifications, thereby shaping gene expression patterns
and impacting health outcomes.
interactional model factor A will have different effects/influence at different levels of factor B. This model in
psychopathology is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the complex interplay
between biological, psychological, and environmental factors in the development and
manifestation of psychological disorders
ex) An example of interaction in psychopathology can be observed in the development
of anxiety disorders, particularly in the context of gene-environment interactions. While
genetic predispositions can increase vulnerability to anxiety disorders, environmental
factors play a crucial role in triggering or exacerbating these conditions.
, transactional model exactly like positive feedback; model for reciprocal processes over time.
ADHD child: child is difficult, parents are strict, child gets more difficult from the
pressure, parents become even more strict, and so on.
For example, depressive symptoms such as social withdrawal and negative thinking
patterns can impact interpersonal relationships and further exacerbate stressors, leading
to a worsening of symptoms.
risk factor a factor that puts a person at risk for psychopathology. Their effects grow exponentially
in the presence of each other.
ADHD example: low birth weight, mother's alcohol/nicotine consumption
protective factor a factor that presents some protection from psychopathology. CAN ONLY BE PRESENT
IN THE PRESENCE OF A RISK FACTOR. If there is no risk factor, there is no way to really
say it was protective.
ADHD example: good relationship with parents
resilience The presence of protective factors. refers to the ability of individuals to adapt positively
and effectively in the face of adversity or significant stressors, thereby maintaining or
regaining mental health despite challenging circumstances. It involves the capacity to
bounce back from difficult experiences, cope with stress, and thrive despite adversity.
ADHD example: high IQ, easygoing temperament
equifinality When different "pathways" lead to the same outcome.
ADHD Example: Genes and low birth weight may both lead to the same ADHD
symptoms at age 8.
SPRING | COMPREHENSIVE EXAM PREP,
PRACTICE QUESTIONS, CORRECT ANSWERS
AND STUDY GUIDE
| GRADED A+ | GUARANTEED SUCCESS
Updated 2026 Questions and Answers
100% Verified Exam Prep
,Homotypic Continuity A type of continuity in which traits/behaviors are continuous throughout development (IE
depression predicts depression)
For ADHD Example: impulsivity at age 2, 4, 6 will predict impulsivity at age 16
Heterotypic Continuity A type of continuity in which a core tendency may persist but has different manifestations
over development
CD Example: core of "aggression" may be swearing in 2nd grade, fighting in 6th grade,
delinquency in high school, and partner abuse in 20s
epigenetics the study of how the environment can turn certain genes "on or off"Environment (outer &
inner) activates genes!
Extremely complex: genes stay the same across development, but chemical changes near
the gene site (e.g., phosphorylation; methylation) can lead to gene expression
ex) For instance, researchers have found differences in DNA methylation patterns
between identical twins, which can influence gene expression and contribute to
phenotypic differences, such as susceptibility to diseases or variations in behavior.
Studies have shown that environmental factors, such as diet, stress, and exposure to
toxins, can influence epigenetic modifications, thereby shaping gene expression patterns
and impacting health outcomes.
interactional model factor A will have different effects/influence at different levels of factor B. This model in
psychopathology is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the complex interplay
between biological, psychological, and environmental factors in the development and
manifestation of psychological disorders
ex) An example of interaction in psychopathology can be observed in the development
of anxiety disorders, particularly in the context of gene-environment interactions. While
genetic predispositions can increase vulnerability to anxiety disorders, environmental
factors play a crucial role in triggering or exacerbating these conditions.
, transactional model exactly like positive feedback; model for reciprocal processes over time.
ADHD child: child is difficult, parents are strict, child gets more difficult from the
pressure, parents become even more strict, and so on.
For example, depressive symptoms such as social withdrawal and negative thinking
patterns can impact interpersonal relationships and further exacerbate stressors, leading
to a worsening of symptoms.
risk factor a factor that puts a person at risk for psychopathology. Their effects grow exponentially
in the presence of each other.
ADHD example: low birth weight, mother's alcohol/nicotine consumption
protective factor a factor that presents some protection from psychopathology. CAN ONLY BE PRESENT
IN THE PRESENCE OF A RISK FACTOR. If there is no risk factor, there is no way to really
say it was protective.
ADHD example: good relationship with parents
resilience The presence of protective factors. refers to the ability of individuals to adapt positively
and effectively in the face of adversity or significant stressors, thereby maintaining or
regaining mental health despite challenging circumstances. It involves the capacity to
bounce back from difficult experiences, cope with stress, and thrive despite adversity.
ADHD example: high IQ, easygoing temperament
equifinality When different "pathways" lead to the same outcome.
ADHD Example: Genes and low birth weight may both lead to the same ADHD
symptoms at age 8.
