Lesson Notes

Lesson 14.5a  Substance-Related Disorders: When Drug Use Becomes Abnormal

Substance abuse is a common phenomenon in our society. Whether it be illicit drugs like marijuana or cocaine to legal drugs like alcohol, the abuse and/or dependence on these drugs is the cornerstone to the disorder. Many people who may suffer from a substance-related disorder may also be suffering from another disorder (such as depression). This comorbidity can be difficult to assess which one was first. Either way, the key for these people is to seek help for both disorders.

Lesson 14.5b  Dissociative Disorders: When the Personality Splits Apart

This lesson looks at one of the most fascinating classifications of psychological disorders. Several movies and books have been made dealing with this type of disorder. Although there are several types of dissociative disorders, including dissociative amnesia and dissociative fugue, the most popular classification is dissociative identity disorder (frequently referred as multiple personality disorder). Common symptoms to these disorders are a high level of stress, anxiety, and abuses suffered as a young person. Although there are many psychologists who dismiss this disorder altogether, there is much evidence in support of DID.

Lesson 14.5c  Personality Disorders: Antisocial and Borderline

This final lesson on psychological disorders analyzes two of the most serious disorders in our society. A person suffering from Antisocial Personality Disorder is commonly known as a sociopath or psychopath. This disorder is believed to be as high as 1-2 percent of the population. What that means is that there are about 20,000 psychopaths in the Vancouver area. If this is true, then why are there not more serial killers? The reason for this common misperception is because most people with antisocial personality disorder do not break the law, let alone kill people. People with this disorder have traits such as a lack of conscience, lack of empathy, egocentrism, and superficial charm, to name a few. These traits can be found in your neighbour, co-workers, even lawyers and businessmen. Robert Hare is a world renowned researcher working at UBC who has devised the Psychopathy Checklist which helps psychologists diagnose possible psychopaths. The overall feeling, even with these tests, is that the disorder cannot be treated.

The other personality disorder discussed in this lesson is Borderline Personality Disorder. This disorder is characterized by instability and impulsivity in a person’s mood, relationships, and self-image. People who suffer from BPD see the world as “black and white” – there is no shade of grey. Either they love you or hate you. Their relationships are volatile, mood swings are common, and as a result, they are difficult people to form friendships with. Many psychologists feel that the onset of BPD is highly associated with people who suffered from neglect, physical, sexual, or even emotional abuse. Unfortunately, BPD is one of the most common psychological disorders in our society.