Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Kernpathologien / Español: Patologías centrales / Português: Patologias centrais / Français: Pathologies centrales / Italiano: Patologie centrali /

Core pathologies refers to destructive forces that result from severe, negative resolutions of the psychosocial crises.

In psychology, core pathologies are fundamental psychological problems or disorders that underlie other symptoms or behaviors. They are the underlying psychological conditions that contribute to a wide range of problems in individuals, such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and addiction. Understanding core pathologies is essential to effective treatment of mental health disorders.

Examples of core pathologies include:

1. Attachment disorders: Attachment disorders are characterized by difficulties in forming and maintaining close relationships. This can lead to a range of symptoms, such as fear of abandonment, difficulty trusting others, and problems with emotional regulation.

2. Self-esteem issues: Low self-esteem can lead to a range of problems, including anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. It can also contribute to a lack of motivation, a fear of failure, and a general sense of dissatisfaction with life.

3. Emotional dysregulation: Emotional dysregulation refers to difficulties in regulating emotions, which can manifest as mood swings, impulsivity, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Emotional dysregulation is often seen in individuals with borderline personality disorder.

4. Trauma and PTSD: Trauma can lead to a range of psychological problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and difficulties in relationships. Trauma can also lead to a range of physical health problems.

5. Neurodevelopmental disorders: Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are characterized by difficulties in social communication, attention, and executive function. These disorders can contribute to difficulties in academic, occupational, and social functioning.

Similar constructs to core pathologies in psychology include:

1. Schema therapy: Schema therapy focuses on identifying and treating underlying maladaptive schemas or core beliefs that contribute to a wide range of psychological problems.

2. Transdiagnostic approaches: Transdiagnostic approaches focus on identifying and treating core psychological processes that underlie a range of psychological disorders, rather than treating specific disorders in isolation.

3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to psychological problems.

4. Psychodynamic therapy: Psychodynamic therapy focuses on identifying and addressing unconscious conflicts and patterns of behavior that contribute to psychological problems.

In conclusion, core pathologies are fundamental psychological problems or disorders that underlie a wide range of symptoms or behaviors. Examples of core pathologies include attachment disorders, self-esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma and PTSD, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding and addressing core pathologies is essential to effective treatment of mental health disorders. Other related constructs in psychology include schema therapy, transdiagnostic approaches, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic therapy.