Application: Case Study – Personality Disorders

Chaotic lifestyles, chronic life interruptions, fractured support systems, and frayed identities collectively describe some of the characteristics of individuals who suffer with personality disorders. Individuals with personality disorders are similar to children navigating through life confused and unsure. Even when surrounded by family and friends, individuals who suffer with personality disorders may feel isolated and alone. As a future professional in the field of psychology, assigning a diagnosis of personality disorder may be very complex.

For this Application, review the case study in the Learning Resources. Consider important client characteristics for developing a personality disorder diagnosis. Think about your rationale for assigning a particular diagnosis on the basis of the DSM.

The Assignment (3–4 pages)

• A DSM diagnosis of the client in the case study
• An explanation of your rationale for assigning the diagnosis on the basis of the DSM
• An explanation of what other information you may need about the client to make an accurate diagnosis based on the DSM diagnostic criteria