Case Study

Case Study 1

Alex is an 11 year old boy who is brought in to your office for an evaluation. His parents report, that during the past three months he has been exhibiting behaviors that seem uncharacteristic of him. He reportedly has been very irritable, clingy and has been reluctant to go to school frequently complaining of either a stomach ache or a headache. His pediatrician has not been able to find any physical cause for these complaints.  Overall, his appetite is fine, but he has complained of increased fatigue. His sleeping patterns of not changed.

His academic performance has not deteriorated, but his teacher reports that while at school he frequently appears to be distracted. Last year, he was one of the fastest runners in the class, but now usually places last.  He refused to go to his best friend’s birthday party last week because he was too “tired”. He has been very reluctant to attend baseball practice, often saying that he is “no good”.

When asked privately, Alex says he feels “fine “ and does not attribute any issue at school, with friends, or at home to the complaints noted above. His parents report being in a happy marriage and appear to parent and discipline him appropriately.

In essay format, please answer the following questions. You must find, at least one peer reviewed article base on the  paper, in addition to any course readings. In text citations and a reference list must be included using APA format.

1). Provide a brief recap of the case (1 point)
2). Provide a diagnosis for Alex, supporting your selection with specific examples from the case and from the readings (1 point)
3) Discuss at least two different theories on how this disorder develops in children (2 points)
4) Describe two ways that the symptoms of this disorder in children might manifest themselves differently than that of an adult with this disorder (2 points)
5) Discuss at least three different treatment approaches for this disorder (2 points)
6) Describe the potential consequences of failing to obtain treatment for this disorder (1 point)
7) Writing expectations for graduate level work & APA format must be adhered to (1 point)

Kremer, P., Elshaug, C., Leslie, E., Toumbourou, J. W., Patton, G. C., & Williams, J. (2014). Physical activity, leisure-time screen use and depression among children and young adolescents. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 17(2), 183-187. [via library]

Lenz, S et al. (2011).  Parent child interaction therapy: A novel treatment for depression in children. Depression & Anxiety, 28, 153-159. [via library]