PSYC FPX 2300 assessment 3

Help Me! Full Assessment of a Case Study

Client Name: John Assessment Date: Substance Use History

Diagnostic Criteria Checklist

Assessment Analysis 

Basis of Diagnosis 

John fits the DSM-5 criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder 303.90. He meets the symptom criteria for a severe condition, having satisfied more than six of the criteria. These symptoms include the consumption of more alcohol than is intended, the persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down alcohol consumption, and continued drinking despite the known adverse consequences. He also reports a lot of urges to drink alcohol and therefore is reinforcing that compulsive element of his alcoholism.

John’s alcoholism has impacted his ability to accomplish significant tasks in the workplace, and he is usually unable to generate sufficient funds to support community programs. It has also affected his personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, who is also a heavy drinker. Although John is aware of the damage he is causing through his drinking, he has not been able to quit. These patterns of behavior affirm the diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder and highlight the requirement for comprehensive treatment.

Applicable Theory 

The Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Addiction offers a very good framework for understanding John’s alcohol dependency. The cognitive-behavioral Model proposes that addiction is developed as a learned behavior supported by the perceived benefits of substance use (Lopes et al., 2021). In John’s case, alcohol acts as a coping mechanism to deal with the stress and disappointment arising from his failure to meet his personal and professional expectations. His alcohol dependence is strengthened by its reprieve, although it rather worsens his troubles.

John’s current occupation is not to his liking and is the largest factor contributing to his addiction. He dreamed of having a sports career but feels that he failed at this. He instead serves in an often demanding role in his community and finds his life unfulfilling. The unaddressed emotions and the normalization of drinking in the social environment can deepen the dependency on alcohol (Lavallee, 2024). Underlying factors can only be appreciated by understanding those elements that will help to break the vicious cycle of John’s addiction.

Sociocultural Factors 

John’s addiction is significantly socioculturally influenced. Alcohol consumption in his community is quite common and has become a social norm. He finds it challenging to realize how grave his drinking problem is due to the sociocultural norms of his community. In addition, John’s wife is also an excessive drinker, making the house environment one in which alcohol use is tolerated and encouraged. This shared dependency complicates John’s ability to cut back on his use.

Additionally, John’s professional life has been a burden emotionally. He is a leader in his tribal community and works in a capacity that involves helping young adults and securing funding for projects. However, the pressure of meeting expectations coupled with his inability to achieve the desired results has made him feel demotivated and inadequate. The cycle of stressors has been created in which John uses alcohol as a coping mechanism and, in doing so, reinforces his addiction.

Motivation for Change and Relapse Prevention 

Motivational Interviewing can be a useful tool in the treatment of John’s addiction. Motivational Interviewing is based on the principles of encouraging the patient to discover his reasons for change and empowering him to take action (Cole et al., 2023). In these, for example, John will be guided through reflecting on how quitting alcohol may improve his health, strengthen his relationship with his wife, and ultimately contribute positively towards his community. Personal goals work very well for this kind of change.

John will have to have a plan that has both emotional and practical tools for stress management. Joining an Alcoholics Anonymous AA is also a way to give him a support group community. Additionally, using healthier coping skills such as exercise, mindfulness, or other hobbies can help replace the void that alcohol may have occupied in the lives of addicts (Vieira et al., 2023). He can, therefore, work his way towards a more fulfilling life with constant effort and professional help to reduce his risk of relapse.

Ethical Considerations

Confidentiality 

All aspects of John’s treatment must maintain confidentiality. His personal information, medical records, and therapy discussions should be kept in a safe place and only accessible to authorized personnel. In cases where disclosure is required, such as when there is a risk of harm to John or others, proper protocols must be followed and the necessary approvals sought. Confidentiality helps to establish trust between John and his treatment team, which is essential for recovery.

Appropriate Relationships 

Professional boundaries must be maintained in the treatment of John. Medical professionals must not develop any personal or romantic relationships with John for unbiased care and ethical practice. This includes respecting the boundaries of John and focusing strictly on his recovery. Adherence to the ethical principles set by bodies such as NAADAC and APA will facilitate a safe environment for John in which he feels supported, therefore ensuring the best possible outcome in his treatment.