Disease Model Versus Positive Psychology Worksheet ✓ Solved

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.

Paper For Above Instructions

William’s situation presents a compelling case for analysis from both traditional psychology and positive psychology perspectives. From the viewpoint of traditional psychology, his circumstances must be examined holistically, incorporating a variety of factors that could contribute to his current state. Key aspects include his work-life balance, emotional well-being, and physical health. His weight gain, high blood pressure diagnosis, insufficient sleep, and feelings of worthlessness suggest he may be experiencing significant psychological stress. A psychologist operating under the disease model would prioritize identifying and diagnosing any underlying mental health disorders or physical conditions impacting William's well-being.

Important information stems from William’s lifestyle changes and emotional state. His transition from a hands-on carpenter to a project manager indicates possible professional dissatisfaction and a loss of personal fulfillment. Psychologists may explore the impact of job stressors and lack of social support, as he has limited interactions with family and friends, which are critical for emotional health (Seligman, 2011). Recommendations could include cognitive-behavioral therapy aimed at addressing his anxiety and depression symptoms related to work stress, as well as lifestyle changes that promote physical health. Incorporating physical activity and restructuring his work schedule may lead to improvements in both his mental and physical health.

Conversely, analyzing William's scenario through the lens of positive psychology emphasizes his strengths, potential, and the pursuit of a fulfilled life, despite present difficulties. Positive psychology focuses on enhancing well-being rather than merely treating illness, making it particularly relevant in situations like William’s where hopelessness is a concern (Seligman, Steen, Park, & Peterson, 2005). Significant information includes his previous joy in crafting furniture, which could be leveraged to rekindle his passion and enhance his overall happiness.

A positive psychology perspective would advocate for interventions that focus on fostering relationships, enhancing well-being, and promoting personal growth. Recommendations may include engaging in activities that he previously found enjoyable, such as woodworking, and spending time with his daughters, which could fortify familial bonds and create new avenues for fulfillment. Positive psychology exercises, such as gratitude journaling or mindfulness practices, could help him gain a better perspective on his life and reduce his feelings of pointlessness (Fredrickson, 2001).

In summary, William's case illustrates the stark contrast between the disease-oriented perspective of traditional psychology and the strengths-based approach of positive psychology. Both viewpoints provide valuable insights and differing recommendations which, when integrated, could offer a well-rounded strategy for addressing his concerns effectively.

References

• Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist, 56(3), 218-226.
• Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A vision of a positive psychology. New York: Free Press.
• Seligman, M. E. P., Steen, T. A., Park, N., & Peterson, C. (2005). Positive psychology progress: empirical validation of interventions. American Psychologist, 60(5), 410-421.
• Ryff, C. D. (1989). Happiness is everything, or is it? Explorations on the meaning of psychological well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 57(6), 1069-1081.
• Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. New York: Harper & Row.
• Bowling, A. (2005). Measuring health: A review of quality of life measurement scales. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
• Diener, E., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Beyond money: Toward an economy of well-being. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 5(1), 1-31.
• Kern, M. L., & Friedman, H. S. (2009). Do status and resources moderate the influence of personality on well-being? Journal of Research in Personality, 43(5), 499-509.
• Fredrickson, B. L., & Joiner, T. (2002). Positive emotions trigger upward spirals toward emotional well-being. Psychological Science, 13(2), 172-175.
• Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character strengths and virtues: A handbook and classification. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.