ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY (DSM-5 UPDATE,
8TH EDITION) BY RITA WICKS – NELSON
UPDATED 2026 REAL EXAM QUESTIONS
,Table of Contents — Abnormal Child and Adolescent Psychology (DSM-5
Update, 8th Edition) BY RITA WICKS - NELSON
1. Chapter 1 — Introduction
2. Chapter 2 — The Developmental Psychopathology Perspective
3. Chapter 3 — Influences and Risks in the Developmental Process
4. Chapter 4 — Research: Its Role and Methods
5. Chapter 5 — Classification, Assessment, and Treatment
6. Chapter 6 — Anxiety Disorders
7. Chapter 7 — Mood Disorders
8. Chapter 8 — Conduct Problems
9. Chapter 9 — Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
10.Chapter 10 — Language and Learning Disorders
11.Chapter 11 — Mental Retardation (Intellectual Disability)
12.Chapter 12 — Autism and Schizophrenia
13.Chapter 13 — Disorders of Basic Physical Functions
14.Chapter 14 — Psychological Factors Affecting Medical Condition
15.Chapter 15 — Evolving Concerns for Youth
,CHAPTER 1 — INTRODUCTION
SUMMARY
This chapter introduces abnormal child and adolescent psychology,
emphasizing definitions of abnormality, prevalence, historical perspectives, and
the importance of developmental context. It highlights risk and protective
factors, ethical considerations, and the nurse’s role in early identification,
assessment, prevention, and family-centered care to promote mental health,
reduce stigma, and support evidence-based interventions across childhood and
adolescence.
1. Which statement best describes abnormal behavior in children?
A. Behavior that is rare in the general population
B. Behavior that deviates from developmental expectations and causes
impairment
C. Any behavior diagnosed using DSM criteria
D. Behavior that upsets parents or teachers
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Abnormal behavior is defined by deviation from norms with
associated distress or impairment. Rarity alone or adult reactions do not
determine abnormality.
, 2. A school nurse notes a child’s tantrums occur daily, disrupt learning, and
persist beyond developmental norms. Which concept best explains
concern?
A. Statistical deviance
B. Developmental appropriateness
C. Cultural relativism
D. Situational stress
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Behaviors inappropriate for developmental stage and causing
impairment signal potential psychopathology, not merely cultural or situational
variation.
3. Which factor most strongly supports labeling a behavior as disordered?
A. Teacher frustration
B. Family conflict
C. Functional impairment
D. Child noncompliance