A nurse is discussing the theories that explain the biological basis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with a group of nursing students. Which theory suggests that depression is caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood, motivation, reward, cognition, and stress response?

Genetic theory.

Neuroendocrine theory.

Neurotransmitter theory.

Environmental theory.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Genetic theory suggests that a person's genetic makeup can predispose them to develop depression, but it does not specifically address the role of neurotransmitters in depression. While genetics can contribute to the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD), this choice doesn't focus on the neurotransmitter imbalances.

Choice B rationale:

Neuroendocrine theory pertains to the role of hormones in depression, particularly abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. While hormones play a role in mood regulation, this theory does not primarily revolve around neurotransmitter imbalances.

Choice C rationale:

Neurotransmitter theory proposes that an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, contributes to the development of major depressive disorder. This theory aligns with the idea that these neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, reward, cognition, and stress response.

Choice D rationale:

Environmental theory suggests that external factors, such as life events and stressors, contribute to the development of depression. While environment can indeed influence depression, it does not specifically address the neurotransmitter imbalances that are central to this question.

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Correct Answer is ["C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Increased interest in activities is not consistent with the clinical presentation of MDD. In fact, a hallmark symptom of MDD is anhedonia, which involves a reduced interest or pleasure in most activities.

Choice B rationale:

Weight gain is not typically associated with MDD. In contrast, significant changes in appetite and weight loss are more common symptoms, often accompanied by feelings of worthlessness or guilt related to body image.

Choice C rationale:

Excessive guilt and self-blame are common cognitive and emotional symptoms of MDD. Individuals with MDD tend to have a negative self-perception and may blame themselves for their difficulties.

Choice D rationale:

Insomnia, or difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is a common sleep disturbance associated with MDD. Sleep problems can exacerbate the symptoms of depression and impact overall well-being.

Choice E rationale:

Elevated mood and increased energy are actually more indicative of conditions like bipolar disorder or manic episodes, where there are distinct periods of abnormally elevated mood, known as mania or hypomania.

A. Social support. B. Personalization. C. Cognitive distortions. D. Catastrophizing. E. Interpersonal relationships.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Social support refers to the network of family, friends, and community that provide emotional and practical assistance. Depression can be influenced by inadequate social support, as having a strong support system can buffer against the development and exacerbation of depressive symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Personalization involves attributing external events to oneself, often in a negative manner. While this cognitive distortion is relevant to depression, it is not mentioned in the question stem and does not directly relate to cognitive processes influenced by depression.

Choice C rationale:

Cognitive distortions are irrational and negative thought patterns that are common in depression. These distortions contribute to the maintenance of depressive symptoms. Examples include all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing.

Choice D rationale:

Catastrophizing involves magnifying the negative significance of events. While it can contribute to depressive thought patterns, it is not as central to cognitive processes influenced by depression as cognitive distortions are.

Choice E rationale:

Interpersonal relationships are affected by depression and can also contribute to its development. The question does not focus on the effects of depression on relationships, but rather on the factors that can influence or be influenced by depression.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is assessing a client for major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following signs and symptoms are consistent with the clinical presentation of MDD? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["C","D"]

Explanation

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is educating a client about the psychosocial factors that can influence or be influenced by depression. Which of the following factors are associated with depression and its effects on cognitive processes? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is explaining the role of neurotransmitters in the pathophysiology of MDD to a group of nursing students. Which neurotransmitters are mentioned in the text as being involved in regulating mood, motivation, reward, cognition, and stress response?

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is educating a group of clients about the treatment approaches for MDD. Which of the following modalities are considered main treatment options for MDD according to the text? Select all that apply.

A nurse is discussing the various treatment approaches for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with a client. Which treatment modality involves stimulating the brain electrically or magnetically to induce changes in neuronal activity and neuroplasticity?

A nurse is assessing a client who has been experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The client denies any history of manic episodes. Which of the following conditions should the nurse consider as a possible differential diagnosis for this client?

A client is sharing their experiences with a nurse. The client states, "I just can't seem to enjoy anything anymore. Even activities I used to love don't bring me pleasure." This statement by the client is indicative of:

A client wants to understand the factors that contribute to the development of depression. Which of the following factors are mentioned in the text as potential contributors to depression?

A client is curious about the impact of chronic stress on the development of depression. Which statement accurately reflects the relationship between chronic stress and depression according to the text?