Understanding Psychological Disorders and Treatment Methodologies

Tricia is 20-years old and is studying to be a chemist. She has always been anxious but recently she finds herself overwhelmed by the amount of reading and studying she has to do for class. In addition, she has been working part-time to help pay for her education. She has been finding it difficult to concentrate at school lately because she is hearing voices and seeing things that other people clearly do not see or hear. Tricia also believes that her friends are trying to poison her, although they reassure her that they want to protect her. Because of these recent challenges, her grades have started to slip and she is in danger of failing out of school. Tricia's identical twin sister began to experience similar symptoms last year. Tricia is confused and is spending more and more time alone and in an inner world because her interactions with others are so unusual.

Explain which disorder Tricia is likely to suffer from.

Identify the symptoms that led to this diagnosis.

Identify how the following could potentially influence the onset of this disorder for Tricia: Genetic Influence.

Abnormal levels of neurotransmitters.

Environmental issues.

Explain how the following treatment methodologies might be utilized to help Tricia overcome or manage this disorder: Drug treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy.

Drug Treatment