The Disorder And Symptoms In Each Of The Following Scenarios
The Disorder And Symptoms In Each Of The Following Scen
Maud is wandering around aimlessly. She often talks to herself. She appears to know no one and when police take her into custody, they cannot find any family. Maud continues to talk with "people" the police can neither see nor hear. She seems suspicious and “rambles on” about different topics.
Doug is a very charming individual. He flirts relentlessly. He goes into many money making schemes without any remorse for the effect his endeavors have on other people's lives.
Jody has been afraid of dogs ever since she was bitten by one when she was four. Now twenty years later, she still refuses to visit the houses of friends who have pets.
Diane blames herself for the ills of the world. She does not feel like getting out of bed each morning, or studying for the exams and assignments at school. She feels overwhelmed and as if she is sinking. She has also been putting on a lot of weight.
Matthew talks fast, has been making a lot of plans for his future and gets very irritable when anyone interrupts him, or points out flaws in his reasoning. He has also been having a lot more affairs than he used to just two short months ago when he was feeling rather low.
Paper For Above instruction
The scenarios presented each depict individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with specific psychological disorders, each requiring targeted therapeutic approaches. This paper aims to identify these disorders, analyze their symptoms, and recommend suitable treatment strategies grounded in current psychological research and evidence-based practices.
Scenario 1: Maud
Maud’s symptoms—wandering aimlessly, talking to herself, apparent disorientation, and hallucinations—are indicative of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self, and behavior (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Hallucinations, especially auditory hallucinations where an individual perceives voices or other stimuli that are not present, are hallmark features (Kapur & Мarkou, 2019). The disorganized speech and behavior further support this diagnosis, especially considering her apparent detachment from reality and social disconnection.
The primary treatment for schizophrenia involves pharmacotherapy using antipsychotic medications such as risperidone or olanzapine, which help reduce psychotic symptoms (Leucht et al., 2012). In addition to medication, psychosocial interventions including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist patients in managing symptoms, improving adherence to medication, and enhancing social functioning (Theory & Practice of Psychotherapy, 2019). Family therapy and social skills training may also be beneficial to aid in reintegration and reduce relapse rates (Pharoah et al., 2010). The interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care addressing the biological, psychological, and social aspects of schizophrenia.
Scenario 2: Doug
Doug exhibits qualities of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), characterized by grandiosity, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy. His relentless charm and manipulation for personal gain without remorse align with diagnostic criteria for NPD (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). His engagement in numerous money-making schemes with apparent disregard for others’ welfare suggests exploitative tendencies common in narcissistic pathology (Ronningstam, 2011).
Therapeutic interventions for NPD are challenging because individuals often lack insight into their maladaptive traits. However, psychotherapy, particularly psychoanalytic or psychodynamic therapy, can help individuals recognize and modify their narcissistic patterns (Kernberg, 2016). Focused therapy aims to develop empathy, improve emotional regulation, and reduce exploitative behaviors. Group therapy may also promote social skill development and provide feedback necessary for behavioral change (Millon & Davis, 2016). Addressing narcissism requires patience and a collaborative therapeutic alliance, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying vulnerabilities that sustain narcissistic traits.
Scenario 3: Jody
Jody’s persistent fear of dogs following a childhood bite suggests specific phobia, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense and irrational fear of a specific object or situation (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Her avoidance of pet-owners’ homes and distress indicates significant impairment and anxiety associated with her phobia (Öst, 2017).
Exposure therapy is the most effective treatment for specific phobias, involving gradual and systematic exposure to the feared object—dogs in this case—while employing relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety (Ost, 2017). Cognitive-behavioral therapy can also help modify maladaptive thoughts related to dogs and build coping strategies (Craske et al., 2014). For severe cases, pharmacotherapy such as beta-blockers or benzodiazepines can be adjuncts, but exposure therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment. Overcoming this phobia can significantly enhance Jody’s social interactions and quality of life.
Scenario 4: Diane
Diane’s feelings of worthlessness, anhedonia (lack of pleasure), fatigue, weight gain, and withdrawal from daily activities are indicative of major depressive disorder (MDD) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Her self-blame and pervasive sense of sinking suggest deep-seated mood dysregulation and hopelessness.
Effective treatment modalities include antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine or sertraline, which help rebalance mood-related neurochemicals (Trivedi & Fava, 2016). Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, can address negative thought patterns, improve coping mechanisms, and restore activity levels (Hollon et al., 2014). Additionally, behavioral activation therapy, which encourages engagement in pleasurable activities, has shown efficacy (Jacobson et al., 2001). In treatment-resistant cases, newer modalities like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be considered. Addressing depression is crucial for enhancing Diane’s overall functioning and preventing the disorder’s chronicity.
Scenario 5: Matthew
Matthew displays symptoms of bipolar disorder, particularly rapid mood swings, increased talkativeness, impulsivity (such as engaging in multiple affairs), and irritability. His heightened energy levels, risky behaviors, and fluctuating mood states fit the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The recent escalation in risk-taking and emotional instability following a period of low mood aligns with the manic phase of bipolar disorder.
Pharmacological treatment includes mood stabilizers such as lithium or valproate. Atypical antipsychotics like quetiapine may also be used to manage acute manic episodes (Geddes et al., 2004). Psychotherapy, especially integrated approaches like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or cognitive-behavioral therapy, can assist in emotional regulation, recognizing warning signs of mood episodes, and reducing impulsivity (Scott et al., 2020). Psychoeducation is essential for the patient and family to understand the nature of the disorder and improve adherence to treatment. Long-term management aims to maintain mood stability, prevent relapses, and improve overall quality of life (Yatham et al., 2018).
Conclusion
Understanding the specific disorders represented by these scenarios allows for targeted treatment strategies that address biological, psychological, and social factors. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach combining medication, therapy, and social support can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by these mental health conditions.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
- Kapur, S., & Марkou, N. (2019). Schizophrenia: Pathophysiology and Treatment. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience.
- Leucht, S., et al. (2012). Comparative efficacy and tolerability of antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: a network meta-analysis. The Lancet.
- Pharoah, F., et al. (2010). Family intervention for schizophrenia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
- Kernberg, O. F. (2016). Advances in the study of narcissistic personality disorder. Journal of Personality Disorders.
- Millon, T., & Davis, R. D. (2016). The Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI-III).
- Öst, L. G. (2017). The efficacy of exposure therapy for phobias. Clinical Psychology Review.
- Craske, M. G., et al. (2014). Standard and augmented exposure therapy for specific phobias. Behavior Therapy.
- Trivedi, M. H., & Fava, M. (2016). Pharmacotherapy for depression. New England Journal of Medicine.
- Yatham, L. N., et al. (2018). Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) guidelines for bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disorders.