PSYC FPX 3520 Assessment 2 Self Regulation

Student Name

Capella University

PSYC FPX 3520 Introduction to Social Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Self-Regulation Case Study

Case Study 3: Dr. Frank – Practicing Psychology

This case study delineates the challenges faced by Dr. Frank, a practicing therapist whose personal issues impede his professional and moral judgment. Dr. Frank, running a private practice, struggles to attract clients with health insurance, leading to financial strain. In a pivotal scenario, a potential client presents symptoms resembling Depression, covered by insurance, yet diagnosed with Dependent Personality Disorder, typically not covered. Dr. Frank, driven by financial need, convinces the client of a Major Depression diagnosis, compromising ethical boundaries to benefit himself financially. This decision underscores Dr. Frank’s unethical conduct, rooted in compromised self-regulation.

The Concept of Self-Regulation

Self-regulation, pivotal in achieving personal goals by controlling thoughts, actions, and emotions, is emphasized in social psychology literature (Baumeister & Bushman, 2020). It enables conscious control over impulses for personal development, fostering critical thinking skills, and influencing moral values positively.

Research Support

Research in the Journal of Media Psychology highlights motivations driving self-regulation in social media usage (Ozimek & Förster, 2021). It elucidates how individuals seek validation and affirmation online, rooted in personal expectations. Additionally, the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology explores the role of importance in motivating self-regulation, indicating its impact on successful goal pursuit (Critcher & Ferguson, 2016).

Research Interpretation

These studies underscore diverse motivations driving self-regulation, influenced by societal expectations and personal goals. They illuminate the complex interplay between internal and external stimuli shaping self-regulatory behaviors.

Application of Self-Regulation

Dr. Frank’s actions exemplify self-regulation influenced by external pressures, empathy, and personal gain. His unethical conduct, driven by financial desperation and empathy for the client, reflects a compromised self-regulatory process.

Ethical Reasoning Application

Dr. Frank’s ethical lapse illustrates the concept of Incrementalism, wherein individuals slide into unethical behavior due to various pressures (Baumeister & Bushman, 2020). Financial strain and professional pressures compel Dr. Frank to compromise his moral integrity.

PSYC FPX 3520 Assessment 2 Self Regulation

Critical Thinking Application

Dr. Frank’s decision-making reflects Egocentric Thinking, prioritizing personal interests over ethical considerations (Baumeister & Bushman, 2020). His actions, aimed at benefiting himself financially, disregard the patient’s well-being and moral principles.

References

Baumeister, R. F., & Bushman, B. J. (2020). Social Psychology and Human Nature (5th ed.). Cengage Limited.

Critcher, C. R., & Ferguson, M. J. (2016). ‘Whether I like it or not, it’s important’: Implicit importance of means predicts self-regulatory persistence and success. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 110(6), 818–839. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000053.supp

Ozimek, P., & Förster, J. (2021). The social online-self-regulation-theory: A review of self-regulation in social media. Journal of Media Psychology: Theories, Methods, and Applications, 33(4), 181–190. https://doi.org/10.1027/1864-1105/a000304

PSYC FPX 3520 Assessment 2 Self Regulation