You have just begun your career as a psychology professional, and the first client referred to you is a child who is having problems in school. The problems described by his teacher are that he has trouble sitting still and paying attention. Additionally, the teacher tells you that he acts before thinking, demonstrates poor judgment, has difficulty organizing tasks and activities, seems restless, and does not seem motivated. The second client referred to you is an elderly woman in her 80s whose adult children tell you that she is having some trouble lately remembering where she puts things at home. They also mention that she is having trouble recognizing people that she has known her entire life.
As a psychology professional, it is essential to conduct thorough assessments and develop appropriate treatment plans for clients based on their specific symptoms and needs. This essay examines two case scenarios: a child experiencing difficulties in school and an elderly woman exhibiting memory problems. Drawing upon the knowledge acquired in this unit, we will diagnose the client, discuss the appropriateness of pharmacological treatment, recommend psychoactive drugs (if necessary), and emphasize the importance of an integrated multidisciplinary team in providing comprehensive care.
Based on the reported behaviors, the child’s symptoms align with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The symptoms of trouble sitting still, poor attention span, impulsive behavior, poor judgment, and lack of motivation are consistent with the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
Pharmacological treatment for ADHD in children is a complex decision that requires careful consideration. Before recommending medication, non-pharmacological interventions such as behavioral therapy and parent training should be explored. Medication may be considered when symptoms significantly impair daily functioning and have not responded adequately to behavioral interventions alone. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin) or amphetamines (e.g., Adderall) are commonly prescribed for ADHD, as they help improve focus and impulse control.
The reported memory problems and difficulty recognizing familiar people suggest potential cognitive impairment, possibly indicative of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. A comprehensive evaluation, including cognitive assessments, medical history review, and neurological examination, would be necessary to make a definitive diagnosis.
Pharmacological treatment for dementia aims to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil (Aricept) and memantine (Namenda) are commonly prescribed medications that may improve cognitive functioning and delay cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease. However, the decision to initiate pharmacological treatment should be based on a thorough assessment, including consideration of the patient’s overall health, potential drug interactions, and individual treatment goals.
In both cases, an integrated multidisciplinary team is crucial for comprehensive assessment and treatment. This team may include psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, social workers, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Collaboration among these professionals ensures a holistic approach to care, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. The team can provide accurate diagnoses, develop personalized treatment plans, monitor progress, and address the diverse needs of the clients and their families.
Assessing and treating clients with diverse psychological needs requires a careful analysis of symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options. For the child with attention and behavioral issues, a diagnosis of ADHD may be appropriate, and pharmacological treatment can be considered after exhausting non-pharmacological interventions. In the case of the elderly woman with memory problems, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the exact diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment may be considered to manage symptoms of dementia. The involvement of an integrated multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive and coordinated care, promoting the well-being of the clients and their families.
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