Instructions
It is anticipated that the initial discussion post should be in the range of 250-300 words. Response posts to peers have no minimum word requirement but must demonstrate topic knowledge and scholarly engagement with peers. Substantive content is imperative for all posts. All discussion prompt elements for the topic must be addressed. Please proofread your response carefully for grammar and spelling. Do not upload any attachments unless specified in the instructions. All posts should be supported by a minimum of one scholarly resource, ideally within the last 5 years. Journals and websites must be cited appropriately. Citations and references must adhere to APA format.
Instructions:
An individual is referred to your office by his parole officer. This 19-year-old male, named Sam, was recently arrested for a “psychotic break” that caused him to throw a chair through the neighborhood drug store window. Sam’s parents arrive and Sam agrees to have his parents present during the interview.
His parents state Sam recently withdrew from college after experiencing a “resounding moment” in which he changed his major from engineering to philosophy and increasingly had reduced his sleep, spending long hours engaging individuals in the commons in conversations about the nature of reality and how he is gaining an appreciation “for all life”. He had been convinced about the importance of his ideas, stating frequently that he was more learned and advanced than all his professors. He told many that “I should be the one teaching these courses, after all, I understand it much better than my professors”. Sam has also increased the number of high-risk behaviors – drinking and engaging in sexual relations in a way that was unlike his previous history. He also has spent a considerable sum of money on “projects to help the world” – unfortunately, he has never completed a project.
Sam’s parents also state that Sam was diagnosed previously by his PCP with MDD and GAD. “These new behaviors are just that – new – since he went to college”.
Further discussions with Sam and his parents reveal that he has never experienced hallucinations and you believe that he currently is not experiencing any delusions. Sam states “I am what I am”.
1. What diagnosis do you believe may apply to this individual?
2. What classifications of medications can be used to treat this disorder?
3. Which medication/dose do you recommend and why?
Responses need to address all components of the question, demonstrate critical thinking and analysis and include peer-reviewed journal evidence to support the student’s position.
Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with in-text citations and corresponding references in APA format.
