week 10 intro to psychology

Historical Treatment Methods

Early treatments were based on supernatural beliefs, leading to inhumane practices (e.g., trepanation).

Asylums provided custodial care but often resulted in abuse and neglect.

Reforms introduced humane treatment, focusing on patient dignity and engagement.

Evolution of Treatment

Antipsychotic medications revolutionized treatment in the 1950s, reducing hospitalization duration.

The 1963 Mental Health Act facilitated community mental health services, promoting de-institutionalization.

Psychotherapy became the most common treatment, with various approaches tailored to individual needs.

Psychodynamic therapy

focuses on unconscious processes and childhood experiences.

Research and Effectiveness

RCTs (Randomized Control Trials) are the gold standard for evaluating psychotherapy effectiveness.

CBT is effective for depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and more.

Eclectic approaches are common, but evidence-based treatments ensure consistency.

Barriers to Treatment

Only 40% of individuals with mental disorders receive treatment due to barriers like insurance, provider availability, and stigma.

Cultural competence is crucial for effective treatment, especially for minority groups.

Historical Perspectives

Early explanations for mental disorders included supernatural beliefs, evolving to recognize physiological causes.

The somatogenic hypothesis focuses on biological factors.

The psychogenic hypothesis emphasizes psychological processes.

Contemporary Understanding

The biopsychosocial model integrates biological, psychological, and social influences on mental health.

The diathesis-stress model highlights how predispositions and stressors interact to trigger mental disorders.

DSM-5 and Diagnosis

DSM-5 categorizes mental disorders and provides diagnostic criteria.

Used widely in clinical and legal contexts.

Criticism includes potential over-diagnosis and the effects of labeling on individuals.

Impact and Stigma

Mental disorders impair communication, daily life, and social relationships.

Stigma is a barrier to seeking treatment.

Public awareness and sharing experiences can reduce stigma and promote understanding.

Themes Across Resources: Evolution of Understanding

Historical shift from supernatural explanations to nuanced understanding incorporating biological, psychological, and social factors.

Connection: Treatment and Diagnosis

Treatment methods evolved alongside diagnostic criteria in DSM-5, highlighting growing complexity in mental health care.

Humanistic therapy

Emphasizes self-acceptance and personal growth.

Behavioral therapy

Targets changing negative behaviors through learning.

Cognitive therapy

Addresses self-defeating thoughts; CBT combines cognitive and behavioral techniques.

Mindfulness therapy

Promotes awareness and acceptance of thoughts and feelings.

Anxiety disorders

includes panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (affects 15-20% of the U.S. population).

OCD

obsessions and compulsions.

PTSD

reliving traumatic events and heightened arousal.

Depression

persistent sadness and loss of interest; it's a leading cause of disability.

Bipolar Disorder

Episodes of depression and mania.

Schizophrenia

disorganized thinking, perceptions, and break from reality