Studies Generally Report Higher Levels of the Major Mental Disorders

question 25

Essay

Studies generally report higher levels of the major mental disorders among inmates than among members of the general population. These findings may indicate mental disorder contributes to offending, but other explanations are also possible. Describe two alternative explanations for these results.

---

Definitions:

Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies employed unconsciously to protect an individual from anxiety and perceived threats to self-esteem or self-concept.

Compensation

A compromise mechanism in which an individual attempts to make up for a negative situation by devoting himself or herself to another pursuit with increased vigor.

Conflict Management Techniques

Strategies and practices used to address and resolve disagreements and disputes in a constructive manner.

Nonaction

Doing nothing in hopes that a conflict will disappear.