Alan Always Has Been Terrified of Spiders

question 517

Multiple Choice

Alan always has been terrified of spiders. He refuses to enter his bedroom at night until it has been thoroughly checked for spiders. Even a picture of a spider makes him extremely uncomfortable. Most likely, Alan is suffering from a psychological disorder called:

• A) generalized anxiety disorder.
• B) posttraumatic stress disorder.
• C) specific phobia.
• D) obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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Definitions:

Schemas

Mental frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret information, based on their experiences and beliefs.

Social Cognition

The study of how people process, store, and apply information about other people and social situations, influencing their perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors.

Priming

Activating an idea in someone’s mind so that related ideas are more accessible.

Activating Concept

The process of making certain ideas, memories, or associations more accessible or prominent in one's mind.