Psych 430 Case Study Grading Rubric Criteria And Points

Psyc 430case Study Grading Rubriccriteriapoints Possiblepoints Earnedd

Identify the core assignment: List the DSM criteria for Major Depressive Disorder; detail symptoms matching each criterion; analyze assessment questions regarding signs of depression, diagnosis criteria, treatment methods, therapy assignments, medication reasons; discuss from a biblical perspective with scripture reference.

Paper For Above instruction

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive mental health condition characterized by persistent depressive mood and loss of interest, impacting daily functioning. According to the DSM-5, the diagnostic criteria encompass a set of specific symptoms and duration parameters. The first criterion involves a depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, which in patients like Carlos manifests through feelings of despair and tearfulness. The second criterion includes a minimum of four additional symptoms such as significant weight change, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, concentration issues, or recurrent thoughts of death—symptoms present in Carlos's case, who experienced poor concentration, sleep difficulties, and anhedonia.

Additional criteria require the symptoms to cause clinically significant distress or impaired social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Carlos’s case exemplifies this as his withdrawal from social and occupational activities reflects impairment. Notably, in the absence of manic or hypomanic episodes, these symptoms confirm a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. Clinicians often utilize structured assessments, including observations of signs like rumination, withdrawal, and hopelessness, which serve as early indicators of depression.

Assessment questions deepen understanding of depression by emphasizing early signs such as persistent worry, withdrawal, and crying, aligning with the DSM's emphasis on mood and activity changes. Dr. Willard’s recommendation for psychiatric medications stems from evidence that combined treatment approaches—medication plus psychotherapy—enhance recovery rates. Specifically, in Carlos’s case, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was employed to address negative thought patterns, with behavioral activation strategies incorporated to improve engagement and challenge cognitive biases. The initial therapy assignment to monitor thoughts and emotional responses helps in identifying patterns contributing to depression, making therapy more targeted and effective.

The rationale for medication alongside CBT is to provide a comprehensive approach, addressing both neurochemical imbalances and maladaptive thought processes. Research indicates that pharmacotherapy can rapidly mitigate symptoms, while CBT fosters long-term resilience by challenging negative schemas. This dual approach maximizes the likelihood of symptom remission, as supported by clinical findings (Keller et al., 2000; Cuijpers et al., 2013).

From a biblical perspective, depression may be viewed through the lens of spiritual struggles and the need for faith and divine reassurance. As Wommack (2012) emphasizes, self-centeredness and negative thought patterns can distort reality and lead to despair. Scripture such as Philippians 4:13 ("I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me") offers comfort and empowerment in confronting depression. Recognizing the importance of trusting God's plan and seeking His strength aligns with the biblical call to seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33), fostering hope and purpose amidst emotional suffering.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Keller, M. B., et al. (2000). Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for depression: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(5), 817–826.
• Cuijpers, P., et al. (2013). The efficacy of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in treating depressive disorders: A meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 151(3), 862–870.
• Gorenstein, G., & Comer, J. (2015). Abnormal Psychology (10th ed.). Worth Publishers.
• Wommack, A. (2012). Self-centeredness: The source of all grief. Andrew Wommack Ministries.
• Beck, A. T., et al. (1979). Cognitive therapy of depression. Guilford Press.
• Hollon, S. D., et al. (2006). Cognitive therapy and pharmacotherapy: A comparison of their effectiveness. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 67(8), 1205–1213.
• Hayes, S. C., et al. (1999). Acceptance and commitment therapy: An experiential approach to behavior change. Guilford Press.
• Kraemer, H. C., et al. (2004). How and why criteria define efficacy in psychological treatment research. Psychological Assessment, 16(2), 109–118.
• Mansell, W., et al. (2008). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression: A review. Clinical Psychology Review, 28(4), 468–482.