Mental Health Disorders (DP IB Psychology: SL): Exam Questions

Describe the role of social support with reference to one example of human behaviour.

Alex is a college student who often interprets everyday situations in a negative way. When they receive constructive feedback from a teacher, Alex assumes it means they are incapable and worries that others see them as a failure. Alex frequently expects the worst possible outcomes in social and academic situations and avoids challenges because they believe they will not cope. Over time, these patterns of thinking have led Alex to feel anxious, lose confidence, and struggle to function effectively in daily life.

With reference to this scenario, explain the value of cognitive models in understanding one mental health disorder.