ASAM EXAM 3 (psychopathology)

the three criteria

• not typical/culturally expected (atypical behavior)

• dysfunction (interferes with functioning)

• personally distressful

therapy

techniques to help mental disorders or interpersonal problems

ethical standards in therapy

• competent treatment, informed consent, confidentiality, & appropriate interactions

therapeutic alliance (why therapy works)

therapist: knowledge + monitors progress; style/personality fit matters

client: strengths, skills, motivation centrally accounts for success

biopsychological model

biological predisposition + environment/stress + resilience all shape well being

level of analysis of bio model

• universal (shared by all humans)

• group (shared by some groups: age, gender, class, etc)

• individual (unique experiences)

cultural values affect

• how symptoms are evaluated

• what help is sought

• what cultural resources exist for mental health

cultural value categories

• self control = calm

• collectivism = harmony/accommodation

• filial piety = respect/obedience

• shame = protect family’s reputation

• achievement = education/career

• unassuming attitude

individual barriers to seeking help

• cognitive

• value orientation

• affective

• physical

cognitive

mental illness seen only as sever/psychotic; distress not considered serious

value orientation

collectivism may conflict with western therapy focus on individual + open verbal sharing

affective

emotion based obstacles that make someone hesitant to ask for help

physical

cost, multiple jobs, childcare, distance, etc

coping vs. defense mechanism

coping = intentional, conscious strategies to manage stress/anxiety

defense = automatic, subconscious protection from anxiety/pain

couples therapy

can address cultural differences, communication, inter generational conflict, gender roles

family therapy

often relevant for intergenerational conflict (academics, role reversal, autonomy) techniques = reframing, validation, structural change

group therapy

feedback\support, groups may form around shared challenges, universal

stigma reduction

don’t see people as limited by disorders; recognize strengths/achievements

AA healing adaptions

emphasize family consensus/harmony respect elders, positive reframe

bicultural approach

multicultural training, inter ethic variation, check your stereotypes