PSYC FPX 3110 Assessment 2 Diagnosing Using the DSM

Student Name

Capella University

PSYC FPX 3110 Abnormal Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Case Study Analysis: Major Depressive Disorder in Jenny

Jenny, a 35-year-old single woman, presented with symptoms consistent with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), according to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5. As per the DSM-5 criteria, individuals must manifest at least 5 out of 9 specific symptoms over a continuous 2-week period to receive a diagnosis of MDD (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Jenny’s symptoms, including insomnia, fatigue, loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities, significant weight loss, and difficulty concentrating, align closely with the diagnostic criteria for MDD (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Furthermore, the absence of physiological or medical causes for her symptoms substantiates the appropriate diagnosis of MDD.

Case Study Analysis: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Fred

Fred, an unmarried man, has been experiencing daily panic attacks subsequent to a traumatic event involving a gunpoint robbery. His symptoms, such as intrusive memories, avoidance of triggers, detachment from others, hypervigilance, and reckless behavior, correspond to the criteria set forth in the DSM-5 for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Fred’s avoidance of public transportation and his reckless cycling behavior notably illustrate marked alterations in arousal and reactivity, hallmarks of PTSD (Neil Greenberg et al., 2015). The lack of physiological or substance-related explanations for his symptoms corroborates the diagnosis of PTSD.

Case Study Analysis: Bipolar I Disorder in Sally

Sally, a 23-year-old woman, demonstrates symptoms consistent with Bipolar I Disorder, characterized by distinct manic episodes. Sally’s inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, and engagement in high-risk activities are in line with the criteria for a manic episode as delineated in the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Sally’s symptoms, such as her excessive writing, impulsive vehicle purchase, and grandiose delusions concerning her novel, indicate significant impairment in social and occupational functioning, supporting the diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder. The absence of physiological or substance-related factors contributing to her symptoms further strengthens the diagnosis.

Treatment Recommendations for Fred: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Psychotherapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) are recommended interventions for Fred’s PTSD. CBT aims to address trauma-related thoughts and behaviors over a 12-week period, assisting individuals in developing coping strategies and reframing traumatic experiences (Fortin et al., 2021). IPT, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing interpersonal relationships and addressing current stressors (Bleiberg & Markowitz, 2019).

Both CBT and IPT have demonstrated efficacy in alleviating PTSD symptoms and enhancing overall functioning (Mayranezouli et al., 2020). By targeting Fred’s avoidance behaviors and interpersonal challenges, these therapies have the potential to ameliorate his symptoms and improve his quality of life.

PSYC FPX 3110 Assessment 2 Diagnosing Using the DSM

Conclusion

In conclusion, the case studies underscore the significance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies in managing mental health disorders. Through the utilization of the DSM-5 criteria and evidence-based interventions such as CBT and IPT, clinicians can effectively support individuals like Jenny, Fred, and Sally in addressing their symptoms and enhancing their well-being.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596.dsm03

Bleiberg, K. L., & Markowitz, J. C. (2019). Interpersonal psychotherapy for PTSD: Treating trauma without exposure. Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, 29(1), 15–22. https://doi.org/10.1037/int0000113

Fortin, M., Fortin, C., Savard-Kelly, P., Guay, S., & El-Baalbaki, G. (2021). The effects of psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder on quality of life in the civilian population: A meta-analysis of RCTs. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 13(6), 673–683. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0000992

Mayranezouli, I., Megnin-Viggars, O., Daly, C., Dias, S., Welton, N. J., Stockton, S., Bhutani, G., Grey, N., Leach, J., Greenberg, N., Katona, C., El-Leithy, S., & Pilling, S. (2020). Psychological treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder in adults: A network meta-analysis. Psychological Medicine, 50(4), 542–555. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0033291720000070

PSYC FPX 3110 Assessment 2 Diagnosing Using the DSM

Neil Greenberg, Samantha Brooks, Rebecca Dunn. (2015). Latest developments in post-traumatic stress disorder: diagnosis and treatment. British Medical Bulletin, Volume 114(1), June, 147-155. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldv014