Instructions
Choose one of the options below to research and explore:
Option 1
It is estimated approximately 50% of individuals incarcerated and/or involved in the criminal justice system meet the criteria for a mental disorder, most often a Substance Use or Related Disorder. Many of the addicted individuals never receive any form of treatment and are often jailed as a result of personal possession or a crime related to accessing money to support an addiction. What research-based programs are being used to ensure that non-violent offenders are receiving treatment rather than jail time where a negative cycle of recidivism may develop? For example, ideas to explore include diversion programs and mental health/drug courts. Additionally, for individuals already incarcerated what successful substance use treatment resources are available to them? Are these programs effective based upon the research? Why or why not? Use academic journal research to support your perspectives and not the textbook or websites.
Option 2
Briefly summarize in one-two sentences the diagnostic criteria for Opioid Use Disorders. The Opioid/Heroin crisis impacts all demographic groups in the United States. It does not discriminate based upon gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Using full-text academic journal research to support your perspectives and not the textbook or websites explore the following questions: What are the varied etiologies and causes for Opioid Use Disorders? Why are these disorders so difficult to treat? What are effective research-based approaches for the disorders, both medicinal and psychological? What roles do the community, criminal justice system, medical professionals, and mental health clinicians play in both prevention and treatment?
Option 3
Briefly summarize in one-two sentences the diagnostic criteria for Cannabis-Related Disorders. Then, research the psychological and developmental impact of the legalization of marijuana. Has legalization led to increased addiction in the states and countries where it has occurred? Has legalization allowed individuals who were using opioids an alternative form of pain management (make sure to discern between the effects of CBD and THC on pain as they are different)? Does marijuana help manage PTSD, etc. or make the symptoms worse? What is the impact of marijuana use on brain development in those 25 years old and younger? Use academic journal research to support your perspectives and not the textbook or websites.
Option 4
Select one specific DSM-5 Childhood Disorder from a category listed in Figure 13.1 or Table 13.2 in Chapter 13 of the text (intellectual disability, specific communication disorder, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, separation anxiety disorder, specific learning disorder, motor disorder, ODD, conduct disorder, and childhood depression and anxiety). Briefly summarize in one-two sentences the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for your chosen childhood disorder. Explore and present the causal factors (etiology) and risk factors for the disorder. Are there risks with diagnosing a child with a disorder? Why is differential diagnosis important with children and adolescents? Do you believe that the disorder you chose is over-diagnosed? Why or why not? Research and explain at least two current and effective treatment strategies for the disorder found in the research journals and not copied from the textbook.
Option 5
Select one specific eating disorder presented in Chapter 11 of the text and/or from the Feeding and Eating Disorders Section of the DSM-5. Briefly summarize in one-two sentences the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for your chosen eating disorder. Explore and present the causal factors and risk factors for the disorder from the academic journals and not the textbook or websites. Research and explain at least two current and effective researched-based treatment strategies for the disorder found in the research journals and not copied from the textbook or websites.
Checklist for Maximum Points:
- Initial post is a minimum of 600 words (not including references) and demonstrates complete comprehension and clear evaluation of the material referenced in the question
- Initial post is made by due date posted in the schedule
- Initial post references and cites three scholarly sources such as those accessed through EBSCO, PubMed or Google Scholar, one of which must come from a peer-reviewed scholarly journal article, using correct APA
