Identifying Disorders

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(A) Identify the physical and physiological factors that may have contributed to Jennifer's disorder(s).

The psychological factors are depression, sadness, weight obsession, temper tantrums, negative self-evaluation, social withdrawal, social withdrawal, frequent crying, insomnia, excessive guilt, and difficulty in social relationships. There is no evidence of an organic problem or substance abuse.

(B) Identify the social and cultural factors that may have contributed to Jennifer's disorder(s).

She is Jewish and she is living in a cultural society where there is a symbolization and prestige associated with being thin. The vignette suggests that Jennifer has always had a weight problem; however, she now views herself as being fat and ugly. A family history of depression is noted in the paternal grandmother and uncle. In addition, Jennifer's parents report being aware of her psychological problems and her weight obsession since she was young.

(C) In an attempt to learn more about Jennifer and her physical and physiological concerns and to ultimately provide meaningful treatment, analyze and provide a rationale for using each of the following methods:

(a) Child-centered play therapy.

Play therapy is the "Systemic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process when trained psychotherapists use the therapeutic power of play to help clinical patients, or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development"t (Boyd-Ortho, 1991 as cited in Malchiodi, 2005). Child-centered Play therapy allows children to express themselves in a safe—relational environment through a communication of play (Vaughn, 2012)

(b) Use of games.
Adding games to play therapy is stated to make the experience more interesting (Olness, 2000). In their work, ...