Dsm-Iv_Evalutation

DSM-IV Evaluation Rachel Carney Abnormal Psychology/270 August 14, 2011 Richard Ferguson DSM-IV Evaluation Our text defines personality disorders as a very rigid pattern of inner experience and outward behavior that differs from the expectations of one’s culture and leads to dysfunction (Comer, 2005). As we take this journey to explore the cumbersome mental problems experienced by Josephine, Luis, Anissa, Karen, and Tony; we will see the reality of how personality disorders truly look. The definition of a personality disorder is remarkably clinical for what it truly entails, as we will see. The first case study we are presented with is Josephine. After reviewing her history, and learning a little bit about her personal relationships, it is apparent that she suffers from a personality disorder called Schizoid personality disorder, which is of the odd cluster. The exact causes of this disorder are unknown although a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Many psychodynamic theorists particularly object relations theorists; propose that schizoid personality disorder has its roots in an unsatisfied need for human contact. The parents of people with this disorder, like those of people with paranoid personality disorder, are believed to have been unaccepting or even abusive of their children. Those with schizoid personality disorder are left unable to give or receive love and cope by avoiding all relationships. There are various forms of treatment for this type of disorder. I would recommend a combination of several different treatments to work together as a whole. A therapist with experience treating schizoid personality disorder is likely to understand your need for personal space and private thoughts, and will continue reaching out to you without pushing. With a skilled and patient therapist, you can make significant progress. There are various medications that can help with flattened emotions, as well as depression. Psychotherapy can help you increase your sensitivity to interpersonal cues and develop social skills. Group therapy can also effective if you can interact with others who are also practicing new interpersonal skills. Our next case study is Luis, who is a narcissist. It's not known what causes narcissistic personality disorder. As with other mental disorders, the cause is likely complex. Some evidence links the cause to a dysfunctional childhood, such as excessive pampering, extremely high expectations, abuse or neglect. Treatments for this disorder are not very successful. Once in treatment, the individuals may try to manipulate the therapist into supporting their sense of superiority. Some also seem to project their grandiose attitudes onto their therapists and develop a love-hate stance toward them. Psychodynamic therapists seek to help people with this disorder recognize their basic insecurities. Cognitive therapists, focusing on the self-centered thinking of such clients, try to redirect the clients’ focus onto the opinions of others, teach them to interpret criticism more rationally, increase their ability to empathize, and change their all-or-nothing style of thinking. The next case study is Anissa. Her affliction is very likely caused by her car accident which had a tremendous effect on her. After ruling out any neurological reasons, it becomes very aware that she is likely suffering from a Conversion disorder. Episodes of conversion disorder are nearly always triggered by a stressful event, an emotional conflict or another mental health disorder, such as depression. The exact cause of conversion disorder is unknown, but the part of the brain that controls your muscles and senses may be involved. It may be the brain's way of coping with something that seems like a threat. For many people, symptoms of conversion disorder get better without treatment, especially after reassurance from the doctor that their symptoms aren't caused by a serious underlying problem. Karen has endured a tremendous trauma that cannot be put into words. She had endured every parent’s worst nightmare. She is suffering from Dissociative Amnesia. Dissociative disorders usually develop as a way to cope with trauma. Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for dissociative disorders. This form of therapy, also known as talk therapy, counseling or psychosocial therapy, involves talking about your disorder and related issues with a mental health provider. Your therapist will work to help you understand the cause of your condition and to form new ways of coping with stressful circumstances. Although this will be helpful for Karen, given the severity of the trauma she has faced, I think it is also highly advisable that she be put on some sort of an anti-depressant, anti-anxiety medication, or tranquilizer. Our last case study is a young man named Tony. He has led a relatively normal life up to this point. His behavior shows to be consistent with Paranoid Schizophrenia. Paranoid schizophrenia is a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment, even during periods when you feel better and your symptoms have lifted. Paranoid schizophrenia and other forms of schizophrenia are brain disorders. Genetics and environment likely both play a role in causing schizophrenia. Although the precise cause of paranoid schizophrenia isn't known, certain factors seem to increase the risk of developing or triggering paranoid schizophrenia, including: Having a family history of schizophrenia, Exposure to viruses while in the womb, Poor nutrition while in the womb, Stressful life circumstances, Older paternal age and Taking psychoactive drugs during adolescence. The main treatments for paranoid schizophrenia are: Medications, Psychotherapy, Hospitalization and Electroconvulsive therapy. I think with his stage of Schizophrenia, psychotherapy and medications are enough to get the situation under control. I would recommend his parents being a part of a life-long treatment plan for him, as it won’t be something which is cured. Reference Comer, R. (2005). Fundamentals of abnormal psychology (4th ed.). New York, NY: Worth.