MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences : Schizophrenia and Depression

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences

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Example Questions

Example Question #41 : Mcat Social And Behavioral

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the drugs of choice in the treatment of __________.

Possible Answers:

psychosomatic disorder

dissociative identity disorder

schizophrenia

bipolar disorder

depression

Correct answer:

depression

Explanation:

Depression is treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood. By allowing more serotonin to be active in the synapses, mood is elevated. Bipolar disorder is treated with the mood stabilizer lithium. Psychosomatic disorder is treated using biofeedback and relaxation techniques to reduce tension and spasm. Schizophrenia is treated with antipsychotic medications, also called major tranquilizers. Risperidone is one of these. The treatment for dissociative identity disorder is psychotherapy.

Example Question #32 : Psychological Disorders And Anomalies

Seasonal affective disorder has been associated with an increase in activity of which of the following proteins?

Possible Answers:

Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4)

Serotonin transporter (SERT)

Acetylcholinesterase

MTHFR

Correct answer:

Serotonin transporter (SERT)

Explanation:

Seasonal affective disorder has been associated with an increase in "serotonin transporter," or SERT. This protein is responsible for removing serotonin from the synaptic cleft and replacing it in the presynaptic neuron; therefore, it ends serotonin's signaling in the brain. Individuals with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have been shown to have higher levels of SERT in the winter months or any condition of decreased light exposure.

All MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences Resources

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