The purpose of this discussion is to think through some of the ambiguities that can make the diagnostic process more complex than it might at first appear.

Begin by carefully reading the Case Study of John. Pay particular attention to how the psychologist’s diagnosis changes as the case unfolds and more information is available about John. Imagine how much more difficult accurate diagnosis would have been if you had followed a particular diagnosis prematurely.

1. What were your thought processes and reactions as you noted the changing picture presented in John’s case?
2. Using the diathesis-stress model to assess John’s case, what salient vulnerabilities and stressors come to mind?
3. Attempt a diagnosis for John, based on your current knowledge, providing the DSM-5 and ICD-10codes, according to the format provided in Unit 1.

Some suggestions to help you prepare your initial post: Since you have not yet learned diagnostic specifics, just describe your evolving impressions in whatever terms seem the most accurately descriptive, and the reasons for those impressions. Turn to the DSM Decision Trees and DSM-5 diagnostic categories for assistance. A combination of narrative comment and a highlighted encoding DSM-5 diagnosis would work well.

Refer to the Case Study Response Guide to assist you with this discussion.

Books:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

Kilpatrick, D. G., Resnick, H. S., Milanak, M. E., Miller, M. W., Keyes, K. M., & Friedman, M. J. (2013). National estimates of exposure to traumatic events and PTSD prevalence using DSM-IV and DSM‐5 criteria. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 26(5), 537–547.

Koerner, K., Kohlenberg, R. J., & Parker, C. R. (1996). Diagnosis of personality disorder: A radical behavioral alternative. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 64(6), 1169–1176.