What term refers to the cause or origin of abnormal behavior?

• A. Diagnosis
• B. Etiology
• C. Prognosis
• D. Pathology

Answer: (B)

The term that refers to the cause or origin of abnormal behavior is etiology. In the context of psychology and counseling, etiology involves understanding the factors that contribute to the development of psychological disorders. This can include genetic, biological, environmental, and social influences that interact to produce certain behaviors or mental health conditions. Recognizing the etiology of a disorder is essential for clinicians, as it helps inform treatment planning and interventions.

Diagnosis pertains to identifying the specific mental health disorder based on symptoms and criteria, while prognosis refers to the expected outcome or forecast of the disorder's course and recovery potential. Pathology focuses on the study of the nature of diseases, including their causes and effects, but it does not specifically confine itself to the psychological realm.