PS124-1: Apply psychological theories, processes, and concepts to human behavior.
Case Scenario 1
Jeremy is an eight year old boy that is experiencing problems at home and at school. While at home, his mother often complains that he is very messy, disorganized, and is frequently interrupting others. At school, his teachers report that he is often distracted, fidgety, restless, and frequently losing his work or leaving it incomplete. Jeremys mother feels that his behavior is getting in the way of his school success and worries about his lack of friends. Jeremy does not get along well with his peers because they get annoyed with his erratic and unpredictable behavior, along with his inability to stay focused during any type of game. It appears that Jeremy could be struggling with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
It is important to remember that diagnosing people and recommending psychological treatment is for psychology professionals specifically trained in this area. Furthermore, these psychology professionals should avoid working with friends, family members, or anyone else that they have another relationship with besides the therapist/client relationship. This is known as the dual relationship concept and it is an ethical standard for working in psychology. It helps with professionalism, objectivity, and protects both the psychologist and the client. After reading and considering the case scenario that you chose, apply the four dominant theories of psychology to help you further understand the case.For each school of thought (Psychodynamic, Behavioral, Humanistic, and Cognitive) write a paragraph about what this theory tells you about psychology and what techniques it may recommend to help the person in your case scenario. Prioritize which theory and type of treatment would be most important in order to lead a plan to best help your client. Describe how you feel this knowledge could be applied to your professional work. Keeping in mind the dual relationship concept, explain how this knowledge could be helpful to psychology professionals.