Psychological Disorder Project Psychosocial Science Psy 1700

Psychological Disorder Project Psychosocial Science Psy 1700 Dental

Working in a team of 2 or 3 (max.), select and view one of the following films. After viewing, create a written report to answer the following questions: 1. What is the psychological disorder that is presented? 2. What is the theory about the etiology, behaviours, and therapeutic approaches for this illness? 3. Why is the character in the film considered to be ill? What factors in this situation may have been the underlying cause? 4. Identify the behaviours which the character exhibits. 5. Does the character receive treatment? If so, what? What treatments are suggested in the literature for this illness? 6. How does the portrayal of this illness in the video compare with the textbook presentation? (This is the focus of the written summary). 7. How would you relate to a family member or friend who was diagnosed with this illness?

Paper For Above instruction

The portrayal of psychological disorders in media has long influenced public perception and understanding of mental health conditions. In this analysis, I examine the film "Girl Interrupted," which exemplifies borderline personality disorder (BPD). The film provides insight into the complexities of this disorder, portraying the behaviors, underlying causes, and therapeutic approaches associated with it, and offers a basis for comparing cinematic representation with clinical literature.

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior. It is often accompanied by intense fear of abandonment, impulsivity, and a chronic feeling of emptiness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The film "Girl Interrupted" narrates the story of Susanna Kaysen, who exhibits many hallmark symptoms of BPD, such as emotional dysregulation, an unstable sense of identity, impulsivity, and tumultuous relationships. The depiction aligns with DSM-5 criteria, emphasizing the internal chaos and aggressive self-destructive behaviors typical of the disorder.

Regarding etiology, theories about BPD suggest a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Research indicates a hereditary component, with higher prevalence rates among individuals with relatives diagnosed with BPD or other mood disorders (Gunderson, 2011). Neuroimaging studies reveal abnormalities in brain regions responsible for emotion regulation, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex (Schulze et al., 2016). Environmental factors, especially traumatic childhood experiences, neglect, or abuse, significantly contribute to the development of BPD (Clarkin et al., 2014). Susanna's tumultuous upbringing and history of emotional neglect in "Girl Interrupted" support these theories, illustrating both genetic vulnerability and environmental impact.

In the film, Susanna is considered ill due to her persistent self-harm, suicidal ideation, unstable relationships, and intense emotional fluctuations. These symptoms cause functional impairment and distress, aligning with clinical diagnostic criteria (Linehan & Chambless, 2016). The underlying causes include her traumatic childhood, invalidating family environment, and possible genetic predisposition, all contributing to her emotional dysregulation and impulsivity.

Susanna exhibits behaviors such as cutting herself, impulsive acts like reckless driving, tumultuous relationships with friends and family, and episodes of intense anger and despair. She demonstrates unstable self-image, often oscillating between idealization and devaluation of herself and others—a hallmark trait in BPD. Her intense fear of abandonment is evident in her relationships, leading her to respond with volatility and self-destructive behaviors.

Concerning treatment, Susanna receives various therapies during her hospitalization, including psychotropic medication and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT, developed specifically for BPD, focuses on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness skills (Linehan, 2014). Literature supports DBT as the most effective evidence-based intervention for BPD, reducing self-harm and improving mood stability (K daytime

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Clarkin, J. F., Levy, K. N., & Lenzenweger, M. F. (2014). Borderline personality disorder: Advances in research and clinical practice. Guilford Publications.
• Gunderson, J. G. (2011). Epidemiology of borderline personality disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 72(S1), 7-12.
• Linehan, M. M. (2014). Dialectical behavior therapy: Skills training manual. Guilford Publications.
• Linehan, M. M., & Chambless, D. L. (2016). Evidence-based psychological treatments for borderline personality disorder. Current Psychiatry Reports, 18(4), 45.
• Schulze, L., et al. (2016). Brain mechanisms supporting emotion regulation in borderline personality disorder. Psychological Medicine, 46(8), 1701-1714.