Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

True or False: The presence of risk factors means a person will definitely develop a mental disorder.

1. True

2. False

3. Only if combined with other factors

4. Depends on the type of risk

The correct answer is: False

The statement is false because the presence of risk factors does not guarantee that an individual will develop a mental disorder. Risk factors may increase the likelihood or predisposition toward developing a condition, but they do not directly cause it. Mental disorders can be influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, psychological, and social factors. Just because someone has one or several risk factors does not mean they will inevitably experience a mental health issue. It is also important to understand that individuals can have risk factors and still maintain their mental health through resilience, coping strategies, and supportive environments. Thus, risk factors are indicators of potential vulnerability rather than definitive predictors of outcomes.