lecture 11 p2: psychological challenges

Question 1

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)

Answer 1

○ A systematic guide for mental health professionals to diagnose and classify psychological disorders.
○ Currently in its 5th edition, it undergoes revisions to align with evolving understandings of mental health

Question 2

Constant Revision of DSM

Answer 2

○ Reflects the evolving societal understanding of mental health.
○ Historical examples include the reclassification of transgenderism and sexual orientation as not psychological disorders

Question 3

International Classification of Diseases (ICD)

Answer 3

○ Used by medical practitioners and physicians.
○ Provides another set of guidelines for classifying psychological disorders, with the current version being ICD-11

Question 4

Categorical Approach

Answer 4

○ Assumes underlying pathological causes unique to each disorder.
○ Relies on specific defining criteria for accurate symptom assessment

Question 5

Client-Centric Approach

Answer 5

○ A shift from “patient” to “client” emphasizes individual agency and involvement in their treatment.
○ Encourages collaboration and considers the client’s perspective in the diagnostic process.

Question 5

Categorical vs. Dimensional Approach

Answer 5

○ Categorical: Defines disorders based on specific criteria, assuming unique underlying causes.
○ Dimensional: Considers psychological phenomena on a scale, acknowledging the spectrum of experiences

Question 6

Limitations of Categorical Approach

Answer 6

○ Relies on accurate symptom assessment, which may vary based on individual reporting.
○ Symptoms overlap across different disorders, requiring detailed information for precise diagnosis.

Question 7

Stereotypes in Diagnosis

Answer 7

○ Gender stereotypes may influence how symptoms are interpreted.
○ Example: Externalizing symptoms attributed more to men, while women are perceived as internalizing their issues.

Question 7

Evolution of Terminology

Answer 7

○ Shifting from the medical tradition, terms like “patient” to “client” reflect a more collaborative and respectful approach.
○ Emphasizes the individual’s role in their own treatment

Question 7

Hybrid Model in DSM-5

Answer 7

○ DSM-5 integrates both categorical and dimensional approaches.
○ Dimensions help capture variations, while specific combinations guide categorization.

Question 7

Dimensional Approach Example - Depression

Answer 7

○ Considers depression on a scale, acknowledging that everyone experiences mood fluctuations.
○ Extreme experiences of mood-related symptoms may indicate clinical depression.

Question 8

Dimensional Approach Challenges

Answer 8

○ Identifying appropriate dimensions is a challenge.
○ Certain disorders may not fit well with specific dimensions, leading to their exclusion.

Question 9

Reliability Challenges

Answer 9

○ Reliability issues arise due to subjective interpretation of symptoms.
○ Clinicians, being human, bring personal biases and interpret symptoms subjectively.

Question 9

Subjectivity in Diagnosis

Answer 9

○ Interpretation of symptoms depends on the clinician’s background, gender, and ethnic perspectives.
○ Cultural influences play a role in defining what is considered normal or abnormal behavior.

Question 10

Time of Measurement Impact

Answer 10

○ Symptoms experienced in different seasons might be attributed to seasonal factors.
○ Awareness of the time of measurement is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Question 10

Cultural Variability

Answer 10

○ Notions of normalcy vary based on cultural backgrounds.
○ Diagnosis might differ depending on cultural interpretations of behavior.

Question 10

Time-Dependent Diagnosis

Answer 10

○ Our understanding of disorders evolves over time.
○ Example: Seasonal Affective Disorder was not well-understood initially, linked to a lack of sunlight.

Question 11

Seasonal Affective Disorder Example

Answer 11

○ Initially misunderstood as general winter depression.
○ Later identified as a condition linked to a lack of sunlight affecting vitamin D levels.
○ Understanding the cause allowed for more effective treatments.

Question 11

Validity Challenges

Answer 11

○ Issues of prediction and content validity.
○ Predicting the course of a disorder or its consequences can be challenging.

Question 11

Problems with Depression Diagnosis

Answer 11

○ Defining clinical depression involves experiencing symptoms for at least two weeks.
○ Subclinical depression might occur with symptoms lasting less than two weeks.
○ Timeframes are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Question 12

Validity in Predictions

Answer 12

○ Predicting the course and consequences of a disorder requires careful consideration.
○ Prognosis and expected outcomes depend on various factors.

Question 13

Problems with Depression Diagnosis

Answer 13

○ Defining clinical depression involves experiencing symptoms for at least two weeks.
○ Subclinical depression might occur with symptoms lasting less than two weeks.
○ Timeframes are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.