ABC/123 Version X 1 Disease Model Versus Positive Psychology

Title ABC/123 Version X 1 Disease Model Versus Positive Psychology Worksheet

Read the scenario and answer the questions in no less than 200 words each. Support your responses with detail from this week’s assigned video and reading. Include APA-formatted citations and references. William is a 44-year old project manager for a large commercial construction firm. He started out as a gifted carpenter who greatly enjoyed designing and building custom furniture. However, after several promotions, he focuses on bringing in new business. He spends many work hours at his computer or on the telephone. He is divorced and rarely sees his two daughters. In recent years, he has gained weight and is displeased with his appearance, but has no interest in or energy for exercise. He does not sleep well because he worries about business problems at night. He was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure. Although he is financially secure, he rarely takes vacations or socializes outside of the office. He has begun to feel that his life is pointless.

1. Discuss William’s situation from the perspective of traditional psychology. What information would be most important? What conclusions and recommendations might be made by a psychologist working from the disease model?

From the perspective of traditional psychology, William’s situation reflects symptoms associated with clinical depression and stress-related health issues. The disease model views mental health conditions as diagnosable diseases with biological, psychological, and environmental components. Key information would include his physical health status, sleep patterns, stress levels, social interactions, and psychological well-being. His recent high blood pressure, weight gain, poor sleep, and feelings of pointlessness suggest depressive symptoms and chronic stress (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). A psychologist employing the disease model might conclude that William’s health and mental state are compromised due to underlying mental health disorders, possibly depression exacerbated by lifestyle factors and stress. Recommendations could include pharmacological treatment for depression or anxiety, along with psychotherapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns. Additionally, lifestyle changes—such as increasing physical activity, improving sleep hygiene, and reducing work-related stress—would be advised to mitigate physical symptoms like hypertension. The focus would be on diagnosing and treating his mental health as a medical disorder, emphasizing intervention to restore biological and psychological balance (Kirmayer & Crafa, 2014).

2. Discuss William’s situation from the perspective of positive psychology. What information would be most important? What conclusions and recommendations might be made by a psychologist working from the positive psychology model?

From the positive psychology perspective, William’s scenario centers on the pursuit of well-being, meaning, and life satisfaction rather than merely alleviating symptoms. This approach emphasizes understanding his strengths, values, and sources of positive emotions. Important information includes his interests, personal goals, relationships, and passions that could foster engagement and purpose. William’s dissatisfaction and feelings of pointlessness suggest a lack of meaningful engagement and connection, which are crucial elements for flourishing (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). A positive psychology-focused psychologist might explore activities that promote fulfillment, such as reconnecting with hobbies like furniture design, or strengthening social bonds with his daughters. The approach would involve interventions aimed at building resilience, fostering optimism, and cultivating gratitude to enhance his overall life satisfaction. Practical recommendations may include engaging in regular physical activity to boost mood, establishing meaningful routines, and developing social relationships. Mindfulness and strength-based practices could help William reframe his perspective and find joy in everyday life, ultimately guiding him toward a more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling existence (Snyder & Lopez, 2002). The goal would be not just symptom reduction but enhancing well-being and promoting personal growth.

Paper For Above instruction

William’s case exemplifies contrasting perspectives of traditional psychology and positive psychology in understanding human well-being and mental health. Analyzing his situation through the lens of the disease model involves diagnosing potential clinical depression and stress-related health issues, whereas a positive psychology approach emphasizes cultivating strengths, purpose, and overall life satisfaction.

From a traditional psychology standpoint, William exhibits symptoms indicative of depression and chronic stress. His disinterest in activities he once enjoyed, coupled with physical health issues such as high blood pressure and weight gain, aligns with clinical depression criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Important information includes his sleep disturbances, social isolation, and pervasive feelings of pointlessness. A psychologist working within the disease model would focus on identifying biological and psychological factors contributing to his condition. The primary goal would be to diagnose and treat any underlying mental health disorders, possibly through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) would be particularly effective in addressing maladaptive thought patterns related to his feelings of emptiness and despair (Kirmayer & Crafa, 2014). Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as increasing physical activity, improving sleep hygiene, and reducing work-related stress, are essential steps toward improving his physical and mental health. The disease model thus prioritizes symptom alleviation and functional restoration through medical and therapeutic interventions.

In contrast, the positive psychology perspective revolves around enhancing well-being, fostering resilience, and discovering meaning in life. This approach shifts focus from pathology to strengths and growth. For William, identifying personal interests, values, and goals can help reignite his sense of purpose. Engaging in meaningful activities, such as rekindling his passion for furniture design, might promote flow experiences and increase positive emotions (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990). Building and nurturing relationships, especially with his children, could enhance feelings of connectedness and support his emotional health. A positive psychology counselor might also incorporate techniques such as gratitude exercises, strength-based interventions, and mindfulness practices to cultivate optimism and resilience (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). These strategies aim to foster a sense of accomplishment and joy, promoting overall subjective well-being. Such an approach encourages a shift from merely symptom management to a proactive pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. Ultimately, positive psychology seeks to help individuals like William create a life rich in meaning and positive experiences, thus supporting sustainable mental health and well-being (Snyder & Lopez, 2002).

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.
• Kirmayer, L. J., & Crafa, D. (2014). Modifying the DSM for global mental health. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 204(2), 89-90.
• Seligman, M. E. P., & Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2000). Positive psychology: An introduction. American Psychologist, 55(1), 5-14.
• Snyder, C. R., & Lopez, S. J. (2002). Handbook of positive psychology. Oxford University Press.