Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Full Answer Section

     

• Avoidance: Crystal avoided talking about the killing and could not walk past or look at the location of the killing. This avoidance behavior is typical of PTSD.
• Hypervigilance: Crystal was hypervigilant and on edge, expecting that something bad could happen at any time. This is another common symptom of PTSD.
• Anger and shame: Crystal also felt anger and shame for not having the courage to prevent the shooting. These emotions are common in people who have witnessed violence.
• Relationship distress: Crystal reported that she struggled to understand why people could be so cruel to each other and reported distress related to her marriage. This relationship distress is likely related to the trauma she has experienced, as well as the physical and emotional abuse she has endured in her relationship.

Theoretical Perspectives Psychodynamic Perspective The psychodynamic perspective views mental disorders as the result of unconscious conflicts between different parts of the personality. In Crystal's case, her PTSD symptoms could be seen as a way of coping with the unconscious anxiety and fear that she is experiencing. Her avoidance behavior and hypervigilance could be seen as ways of protecting herself from further trauma. Her anger and shame could also be seen as defenses against the pain of her experiences. Cognitive-Behavioral Perspective The cognitive-behavioral perspective views mental disorders as the result of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. In Crystal's case, her anxiety symptoms could be maintained by negative thoughts about herself and the world around her. For example, she might think that she is weak and helpless, or that the world is a dangerous place. Her avoidance behavior could also be maintaining her anxiety, as it prevents her from confronting her fears. How the Theoretical Perspectives Provide a Deeper Understanding of the Behavioral Symptoms and Possible Causes The psychodynamic perspective can help us to understand the unconscious motivations behind Crystal's behavior. For example, her avoidance behavior could be seen as a way of protecting herself from further trauma, even though it actually prevents her from healing. Her anger and shame could also be seen as defenses against the pain of her experiences. The cognitive-behavioral perspective can help us to identify the specific thoughts and behaviors that are maintaining Crystal's anxiety. For example, her negative thoughts about herself and the world around her could be contributing to her anxiety symptoms. Her avoidance behavior could also be maintaining her anxiety, as it prevents her from confronting her fears. Treatment Recommendations Based on the theoretical perspectives discussed above, there are a number of treatment approaches that could be helpful for Crystal. Psychodynamic therapy could help Crystal to identify and understand the unconscious conflicts that are contributing to her symptoms. This could help her to develop more adaptive coping mechanisms and to heal from her traumatic experiences. Cognitive-behavioral therapy could help Crystal to identify and challenge her negative thoughts and beliefs. It could also help her to develop more adaptive coping mechanisms and to expose herself to the things she is avoiding. Relational therapy could help Crystal to improve her communication and relationship skills. This could help her to have more supportive and fulfilling relationships. Conclusion Crystal is a complex case, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment approach. However, the theoretical perspectives discussed above can help us to understand her symptoms and to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to her individual needs.  

Sample Solution

 

Summary of Client Case

Client: Crystal, 48-year-old woman Primary Diagnosis: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Distress with Spouse or Intimate Partner

Behavioral Symptoms

• Anxiety: Crystal reported feeling scared and anxious, especially since witnessing the gang-related killing. She had difficulty concentrating and sleeping, and she took an over-the-counter sleep aid to help her fall asleep at night.