Mercy College Dobbs Ferry Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders Essay

Chapter 6:

Individuals experiencing somatic symptoms and related somatic disorders are pathologically and chronically concerned with the general appearance and/or functioning of their bodies, addressing these concerns by seeking out medical professionals. Typically, there is no medical basis for these physical complaints. What are some examples of “normal or average” symptoms that someone diagnosed with a somatic disorder may interpret as indicative of a serious medical condition? As mental health professionals, how might you assess the difference between reported headaches, for example, due to physical factors, and those that might be conversion symptoms? As professionals, how might you addess the secondary gain of the client receiving attention or reinforcement often arising from them experiencing physical symptoms? (This last question is of particular importance in our work with clients and should be given careful consideration in your reply).

Chapter 13:

A number of causative factors have been implicated for schizophrenia, including genetic influences, neurotransmitter imbalances, structural damage to the brain caused by a

prental viral infection or birth injury, and psychological stressors. What are some possible explanations for the gender differences in the onset of schizophrenia? How might gender influence the prognosis of someone with this disorder?