1. John is a 25-year-old man who suffers from social anxiety disorder. He avoids going to

parties, meeting new people, and speaking in public. He feels very nervous and selfconscious whenever he has to interact with others. He wants to overcome his fear and

improve his social skills. Which of the following psychological treatments is most likely to

help John?

a) Psychoanalysis

b) Cognitive-behavioral therapy*

c) Humanistic therapy

d) Biomedical therapy

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on

changing negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. CBT helps clients

identify and challenge their irrational beliefs, learn coping skills, and practice exposure to

feared situations. CBT has been shown to be effective for treating social anxiety disorder.

2. Mary is a 40-year-old woman who has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder.

She has been feeling sad, hopeless, and worthless for the past six months. She has lost

interest in her hobbies, friends, and family. She has trouble sleeping, eating, and

concentrating. She sometimes thinks about ending her life. Which of the following

biological factors is most likely to be involved in Mary's depression?

a) Low levels of serotonin*

b) High levels of dopamine

c) Low levels of acetylcholine

d) High levels of norepinephrine

Rationale: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and

cognition. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression and suicidal behavior.