Deck 16: Section1 : Treatment of Psychological Disorders

Question 1

Summarize the theoretical propositions, goals, and therapeutic interventions involved in humanistic/existential therapies.

Answer 1

The answer should include the following information: (1) These theoretical orientations assume that human nature is generally positive and that individuals have a tendency to strive for personal improvement. Psychological problems stem from alienation and loneliness. For humanistic psychologists, these feelings are the result of failing to reach one's potential. For existentialists, these feelings arise from failures to find the meaning in life; (2) A humanistic approach to therapy is person-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers. This therapy assumes that all individuals have a tendency for self-growth, which can be facilitated by acceptance and genuine reactions from the therapist. This therapy is nondirective. The therapist simply demonstrates empathy and unconditional positive regard at all times. Whatever the client chooses to discuss, the therapist mirrors the client's thoughts and sentiments in an empathetic way. It is thought that, with adequate support, individuals will resume their natural positive trajectory toward growth; (3) Gestalt therapy, developed by Fritz Perls, is similar to person-centered therapy in that therapists are expected to be enthusiastic and warm to their clients, and mirror clients' thoughts and sentiments. In addition, Gestalt therapists encourage clients to become aware of their thoughts and feelings and take responsibility for them. Gestalt therapy focuses on the "here and now." If clients begin discussing a particular event in the past, a Gestalt psychologist might re-orientate them to the present by asking them to discuss how that event makes them feel now. Gestalt therapists also use role-play, such as the empty-chair technique. In this technique, clients are encouraged to imagine that another person (e.g., a spouse, an employer, etc.) is sitting in the empty chair across from them. Clients are encouraged to express their feelings toward this other person and "own" their feelings. Then, clients move to the other chair, role-playing what they think the other person would say or do. In this way, clients begin taking responsibility for their own thoughts, feelings, and decisions, and develop an understanding that others are responsible for their own cognitions.

Question 2

Compare and contrast the three types of antidepressants, giving an example (e.g., brand name) of each. Why aren't antidepressants prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder?

Answer 2

The answer should include the following information: (1) The first class of antidepressants was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which prevent the enzymatic breakdown of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Although they were effective, they had many dangerous side effects and many drug interactions. An example of an MAOI is iproniazid; (2) Tricyclic antidepressants are effective in increasing amounts of norepinephrine and serotonin in the synapse by blocking their reuptake, but similar to MAOIs, they can have many side effects. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants include Tofranil and Elavil; (3) The most recent class of antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase serotonin levels in the synapse by blocking its reuptake. SSRIs have fewer side effects than MAOIs and the tricyclics, and today are considered a front-line treatment for depression. Examples of SSRIs include Prozac, Celexa, and Paxil; (4) All antidepressants can take up to several weeks to show a therapeutic effect, and they are not recommended for treating bipolar disorder. In persons with bipolar disorder, all of these drugs could trigger a manic episode. Mood-stabilizing drugs, such as lithium and valproate, are used to treat bipolar disorder.

Question 3

Addison has felt extremely anxious ever since she moved out of her home and across the country 2 months ago to attend college. She feels completely overwhelmed with school, worries incessantly, and is not sleeping or eating properly. Briefly describe four types of psychotherapists and indicate which one(s) would benefit Addison the most.

Answer 3

The answer should include the following information: (1) A psychologist has a PhD in psychology and can provide psychotherapy; (2) A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed an MD with specialized training in assessing and treating mental disorders; (3) A social worker has a master's degree in social work and has training in working with people in dire life situations such as poverty, homelessness, or family conflict; (4) A counselor can have a wide range of training from minimal training to a doctorate. School counselors normally have a master's degree and specific training in counseling and educational settings; (5) Addison does not require the services of a social worker.

Question 4

Discuss the two types of antipsychotic medications, including their brain mechanisms, strengths, and weaknesses. Give an example (e.g., brand name) of each type of medication.

Question 5

Kaylee and Avery are college students. Kaylee, who has a history of childhood asthma, lately has been experiencing shortness of breath. Avery has felt depressed for the last 2 months. Provide three reasons why Avery is less like to seek treatment than Kaylee.

Question 6

Dylan sought psychodynamic therapy after he lost his job and hit rock bottom. Three years into therapy, Dylan feels better and attributes his improvement to the insight he received during therapy. Discuss three treatment illusions that make it all but impossible to assess if Dylan's improvement was truly due to therapeutic insight into his unconscious.

Question 7

Summarize the goals of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and contrast it with the psychodynamic approach.

Question 8

Jeff's therapist has suggested that he join a support group in which he will meet others who also suffer from social phobia. What do you see as advantages of support groups? What are the disadvantages? Discuss at least two advantages and two disadvantages.

Question 9

Your dislike of spiders has intensified recently, and now you are reluctant to go outdoors because you might see one. Describe how exposure therapy can help reduce your fear of spiders, and distinguish among in vivo exposure, imaginary exposure, and virtual exposure. Also discuss how cognitive and medical treatments might supplement exposure therapy.

Question 10

Summarize the theoretical framework, goals, and therapeutic interventions of psychoanalytic therapy.

Question 11

Miguel is a first-grader having academic and conduct problems at school. Specifically, he cannot seem to stay in his seat and complete assignments. He would much rather run around the classroom and distract other students. Describe a behavior therapy based on operant conditioning that could help treat Miguel's problem behaviors.

Question 12

Liam has felt depressed ever since his girlfriend dumped him. He feels worthless and thinks that he is destined to fail in romantic relationships. How might a cognitive psychologist use the techniques of cognitive restructuring and mindfulness meditation to help Liam?

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