Psychological Disorders Instructions Choose One Of The Psych

Psychological Disordersinstructionschoose One Of The Psychological Dis

Choose one of the psychological disorders discussed this week and answer the following questions: Briefly describe the criteria that qualify it as a disorder. What kinds of medical treatment(s) are recommended for this disorder? Discuss the cultural views of this disorder (any stigma or societal views?). Now that you have an understanding of the different theoretical perspectives, compare and contrast two different perspectives (such as psychodynamic and behaviorism) on how this disorder is viewed and how it would be best treated. Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with citations and references in APA format.

Paper For Above instruction

Psychological disorders are complex conditions that significantly impair an individual’s functioning and well-being. To qualify as a disorder, certain diagnostic criteria outlined in sources such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) must be met. These criteria typically include a combination of behavioral, emotional, or cognitive symptoms that cause distress or impairment and are not attributable to normal cultural or developmental expectations (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Among the wide spectrum of psychological disorders, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) provides a compelling example due to its prevalence and distinct diagnostic standards.

Major Depressive Disorder is characterized primarily by persistent feelings of sadness or loss of interest, alongside symptoms such as significant weight changes, insomnia or hypersomnia, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, difficulty concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). To qualify as an MDD diagnosis, these symptoms need to occur nearly every day for at least two weeks and represent a change from previous functioning. The disorder causes marked distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Several medical treatments are recommended for MDD, with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy being the most common. Antidepressant medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), are frequently prescribed to correct biochemical imbalances believed to contribute to depression (Ferrari et al., 2019). Psychotherapeutic approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), aim to modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that reinforce depressive episodes (Cuijpers et al., 2016). In severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used when medications and therapy are ineffective (Mayo Clinic, 2020). The choice of treatment often depends on the severity of symptoms, patient preferences, and comorbid conditions.

From a cultural perspective, depression is viewed differently across societies, influencing how stigma and societal perceptions are manifested. In Western cultures, depression is increasingly understood as a common medical condition that requires treatment, although stigma still exists, particularly around seeking psychiatric help (Hatzenbuehler et al., 2013). Conversely, in some non-Western cultures, depression may be interpreted through spiritual or moral lenses, often perceived as a sign of personal weakness or moral failing, which can discourage individuals from seeking help (Kleinman, 2004). These cultural views impact the willingness of individuals to access mental health services and shape societal attitudes toward mental illness.

Understanding depression through different theoretical perspectives allows for a more comprehensive view of its origins and treatment options. The psychodynamic perspective, rooted in Freudian theory, considers depression as stemming from unresolved unconscious conflicts, often linked to early childhood experiences and relationships. It emphasizes the role of inner unconscious drives and conflicts, with treatment focusing on free association, dream analysis, and exploring past experiences to bring unconscious conflicts into conscious awareness (Waxler & Crase, 2014). Psychodynamic therapy aims to foster insight into these conflicts, promoting emotional release and resolution.

In contrast, behaviorism views depression primarily as a result of learned behaviors and reinforcement patterns. From this perspective, depressive symptoms are conditioned responses reinforced through negative reinforcement and lack of rewarding experiences. Behavioral therapy for depression involves increasing engagement in pleasurable activities, reinforcement of positive behaviors, and restructuring environmental stimuli to promote more adaptive behaviors (Lewinsohn et al., 2014). The focus is on observable behavior change rather than exploring unconscious conflicts. This approach is often more time-limited and focused on practical behavioral modification.

Both perspectives offer valuable insights into depression but differ significantly in their conceptualization and treatment strategies. The psychodynamic approach seeks to uncover hidden emotional conflicts rooted in early experiences, aiming for deep personality change and insight. Conversely, behaviorism emphasizes immediate behavior change through measurable interventions, often suitable for patients seeking quick symptom relief. Combining these perspectives in integrative treatment plans can be advantageous, addressing both underlying emotional conflicts and behavioral patterns, ultimately leading to more effective management of depression (Barlow, 2014).

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Barlow, D. H. (2014). Anxiety and depression: Distinct disorders or two sides of the same coin? Behavior Research and Therapy, 58, 57-65.
• Cuijpers, P., van Straten, A., & Andersson, G. (2016). Psychotherapy for depression in adults: A meta-analysis. Psychological Medicine, 46(4), 1-14.
• Ferrari, A. J., et al. (2019). The global prevalence of depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 80(6), e1-e9.
• Hatzenbuehler, M. L., et al. (2013). Stigma as a fundamental hindrance to mental health care in the US. Psychological Medicine, 43(3), 579-595.
• Kleinman, A. (2004). Culture and depression. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(10), 951-953.
• Lewinsohn, P. M., et al. (2014). Behavioral activation treatments for depression: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 34(3), 191-203.
• Mayo Clinic. (2020). Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ect/about/pac-20393894
• Waxler, C., & Crase, S. (2014). Introduction to psychodynamic therapy. Routledge.