Dr Cheong Is a Clinical Psychologist Who Is Curious About

question 13

Essay

Dr. Cheong is a clinical psychologist who is curious about how people deal with natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes). His previous research suggests that there is a relationship between how much people feel their emotional well-being was affected by the natural disaster and their likelihood of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. However, he is curious as to whether the effect of emotional well-being occurs because people receive different levels of social support. He conducts a study in which he asks 174 men and women affected by Hurricane Sandy (2012) to report on how their well-being was affected by the hurricane, the social support felt after the storm, and the number of PTSD symptoms. Dr. Cheong finds support for his proposed relationship. However, in examining his data more closely, he finds that the relationship between emotional well-being and PTSD symptoms is stronger for men than for women.
State Dr. Cheong's hypothesis and sketch a diagram of this hypothesized relationship.

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Definitions:

Cumulative Effects Hypothesis

The theory that the impact of multiple stressors or events accumulates over time, leading to more significant consequences than any single event.

Multiple Transitions

Experiences of undergoing several changes or passages from one state, stage, or place to another, which can affect personal development.

Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties

Challenges related to emotions and behavior, which can impact an individual's ability to effectively engage in daily activities.

Well-Functioning Stepfamilies

Stepfamilies that have successfully managed to integrate, creating a stable and supportive home environment for all members.