Module 09 Discussion: Mental Healthcare For Adolescents And ✓ Solved

Module 09 Discussion Mental Healthcare For Adolescence & Childr

Scenario

Ryan is a 12-year-old diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). As a small child, Ryan was first diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. He had just started preschool and was unable to remain in one place for more than a minute or two. His parents had already had a very difficult time in disciplining him because he would become very upset and throw temper tantrums when he could not do as he wished. He just seemed to be an unhappy, irritable child.

This behavior continued in school. As time progressed, Ryan was diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, because he continued to refuse to listen to adults and comply with the rules. By the age of 12, he has begun to bully and annoy others. His parents have decided that the approaches they have used in the past are not working, and they are more afraid his behavior will only get worse.

Initial Post

Provide explanations for these questions and statements:

• Describe the behaviors apparent for each disorder in this scenario (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder).
• If this behavior becomes worse and Ryan starts to violate the rights of others, what medical diagnosis will be given and why?
• Discuss at least two types of medication appropriate to treat Ryan and support your choices with rationale and credible resources.
• Describe why therapy for the parent is important in this scenario including at least two supporting rationales.

Paper For Above Instructions

Mental healthcare for adolescents, particularly those dealing with disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), is a critical area of study and practice. In the case of Ryan, a 12-year-old diagnosed with ODD, we can observe specific behaviors associated with both ADHD and ODD. This paper will describe these behaviors, consider potential future diagnoses, discuss appropriate medications for Ryan, and emphasize the necessity of parental therapy.

Behaviors Associated with ADHD and ODD

ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). In Ryan’s case, behaviors indicative of ADHD include his inability to stay still, frequent disruptions during schooling, and tantrums when his desires are not met. He exhibits impulsive behaviors such as acting without thinking, which contributes to his difficulties in maintaining appropriate behavior both at home and in educational settings.

On the other hand, ODD presents as a consistent pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Ryan’s refusal to listen to adults, non-compliance with rules, and recent tendencies towards bullying are hallmark behaviors associated with ODD. His parents' concerns reflect a normalization of these behaviors that may lead to further complications if left unaddressed.

Potential Future Diagnosis

If Ryan's behavior continues to escalate, particularly if he starts violating the rights of others, he may be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder (CD). Conduct Disorder is defined by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior where the basic rights of others or societal norms are violated (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). This progression is marked by more severe behavioral issues, potentially leading to significant legal and social consequences.

Medications for Treatment

When considering medication to treat Ryan's ADHD and ODD, two effective options stand out: stimulants (such as methylphenidate) and non-stimulant medications (like atomoxetine). Stimulants work by increasing neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps to improve focus and reduce impulsivity (Wilens, 2011). This would help manage his ADHD symptoms effectively. Atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is another viable option especially for patients who may be at risk for substance abuse, as it is non-stimulatory and might have a better safety profile for some adolescents (Banaschewski et al., 2017).

Both medications come with their specific rationales. Methylphenidate is often the first-line treatment based on its efficacy demonstrated through numerous studies in reducing ADHD symptoms (Faraone et al., 2006). Atomoxetine, while not as widely utilized for ODD specifically, may aid in managing symptoms that overlap both ADHD and ODD, providing a multi-faceted approach to treatment.

Importance of Parental Therapy

Therapy for Ryan's parents is vital in this scenario for several reasons. First, parental guidance can provide them with effective strategies to manage Ryan’s behavior and improve discipline practices. Evidence suggests that parental involvement in behavioral therapies significantly enhances treatment outcomes for children with ODD (Brestan & Eyberg, 1998). By equipping parents with tailored tools and techniques, they will be better positioned to respond to Ryan's needs constructively.

Furthermore, therapy can help parents process their own feelings of frustration and helplessness, which is common in families dealing with oppositional children. By addressing these emotional challenges, parents are likely to exhibit improved emotional regulation and resilience, consequently fostering a healthier family dynamic (Siegel & Hartzell, 2003). This holistic approach not only aids Ryan in managing his symptoms but also strengthens the overall family environment.

Conclusion

In summary, addressing Ryan's case involves a thorough understanding of the behaviors associated with both ADHD and ODD, contemplating future diagnoses should his behaviors escalate, and identifying appropriate medications to aid in treatment. Additionally, therapy for Ryan’s parents is vital to equip them with the necessary tools and emotional support to navigate this challenging situation effectively. Collaborative efforts in mental healthcare can yield favorable outcomes for adolescents like Ryan.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Banaschewski, T., et al. (2017). Atomoxetine in the treatment of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: An update. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 26(3), 249-258.
• Brestan, E. V., & Eyberg, S. M. (1998). Effective intervention for children’s behavior problems: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 18(4), 411-434.
• Faraone, S. V., et al. (2006). Efficacy of Adderall in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 45(9), 1026-1034.
• Siegel, D. J., & Hartzell, M. (2003). Parenting from the Inside Out: How a Deeper Self-Understanding Can Help You Raise Children Who Thrive. New York, NY: Tarcher/Penguin.
• Wilens, T. E. (2011). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and the higher risk for substance use disorder. Current Psychiatry Reports, 13(6), 426-431.