PSY 2201 Lecture 3: Causal Factors
Document Summary
Necessary cause: the condition cannot develop without this variable (disorder y cannot occur without the presence of variable x). Sufficient cause: the condition will always develop if this variable is present (if variable x is present, disorder y will occur). But disorder y may also occur as a result of variables a, b, or c. Contributory cause (risk factor): increases the probability that a disorder will occur (if variable x is present, the probability of disorder y occurring increases). Proximate contributory factors are the immediate triggers of a disorder. [divorce, death of loved one, loss of job] Distal contributory factors are more fundamental, underlying factors that contribute to the predisposition to develop a disorder. Reinforcing contributory factors maintain symptoms of disorder that are already occurring. Biological, psychological and/or social predisposition (vulnerability) + stress = disorder. Estimates portion of differences due to genetic inheritance & environment - experience after conception (during womb, growing up)
