Question

1.Describe Eight (8) assessment data of Mrs. Akpaka, aged 34 years who suddenly developed Unusual or irrational fear towards sudden light ? off @ 8.30pm in a hotel ? restaurant while dining with her guests.

2.explain the diagnostic criteria for somatization disorder

3. With classical illustrations, Explain any 4 subtypes of dissociative amnesia

Answer 1

1. Assessment data - shaking , trembling / tingling sensation, sweating , stomach upset , hot or cold flashes , racing heart rate , trouble breathing , chest tightness or pain .

2. DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA FOR SOMATIZATION DISORDER-

A. One or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or cause disruption of daily life.

B. Excessive thoughts , behaviour, feelings related to somatic symptoms or associated health concerns as manifested by atleast one of the following;

1. Disproportionate and persistent thoughts about the seriousness of one's symptoms.

2. Persistently high level anxiety about the symptoms.

3. Excessive time and energy devoted to these symptoms.

C. Although any one somatic symptom may not be continuously present , the state of being symptomatic is persistent for more than 6 months.

Specify if : with predominant pain ( previous pain disorder ) - This specifier is for individuals whose somatic symptoms predominantly involve pain.

Specify if : persistent - a persistent course is characterized by severe symptoms , marked impairment and long duration for more than 6 months.

Specify if : MILD - only one symptom specified in B criterion is fulfilled.

MODERATE - two or more of the symptoms specified in B criterion are fulfilled .

SEVERE - two or more of the symptoms specified in B criterion are fulfilled plus there are multiple somatic complaint or one severe somatic symptom.

3. Subtypes of dissociative amnesia :

a. LOCALISED TYPE- failure to recall events during a specific period of time .

b. SELECTIVE TYPE - only some events can be recalled during a period of time especially traumatic events can be remembered easily.

c. GENERALIZED TYPE - complete amnesia for one's life history. Forgets his identity . Sudden onset . Rare.

d. CONTINOUS TYPE - loss of memory of every new event as it occurs.