formulation

ASSIGNMENT PROMPT

For this assignment you will use the case study of Vlad in Chapter 13 and write a paper that provides a case formulation chart and case formulation narrative. Information and details about writing a case formulation paper are below. 

Case formulations are a more in depth type of case study. It is a conceptualization of the client and describes the contextual environment that shaped how they came to be who they are as they present to you. It requires a different skill than diagnosing an illness. It is the application of theory to the biopsychosocial assessment. This is where we strive to uncover the whole picture, as many aspects as possible of the client. This detail conceptualization is rich in specific information about the client's life and enhances the treatment plan process. It all comes together here! The article, website and powerpoint will give you more information. 

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· You can find background information about case formulations in this article titled   Formulation for Beginners   Selzer, R., & Ellen, S. (2014). Australasian Psychiatry, 22(4), 397-401. (click on the link or find it easily located in google scholar)

· Review the Biopsychosocial Model and Case Formulation on the following website :  Case Formulation  

· Case formulation Powerpoint.pptx    Voice Over Slide Presentation about case formulation

DIRECTIONS FOR ASSIGNMENT

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· Read case study of Vlad in Chapter 13 of Corcoran & Walsh course textbook. 

· Create and fill out a 4P Case Formulation chart using the cell titles below.  Don't forget some factors may overlap and should be listed in multiple cells.   Use short and brief bullet descriptors as modeled in examples provided on the website.  Do not write full sentences in the chart 

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·	Biological	Psychological	Social
Predisposing
Precipitating
Perpetuating
Protective

 

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· Identify a full diagnosis

· Write a narrative of the case study which incorporates the chart components and use the following headings.  Your narrative also identifies and  applies the theory underlying the clinical statement you are writing to support your case formulation (you may add other sub headings if you desire).

Patient ID:

· Include all applicable diagnosis and specifiers (includes medical dx  for example; diabetic, cancer remission x2 years, eczema etc., )

· Current stressors, plus salient developmental history

Non-psychological factors:

· Genetics, temperament, medical history, substances, medications

Early developmental and pathogenic psychological factors:

· Include application of developmental theories where applicable

Precipitating and perpetuating factors

· Don't forget these could include personality traits, coping skills, etc. 

Prediction of response to treatment and interventions:

· Be sure to discuss factors that you might include in initiating treatment - like addressing readiness to change (stages of change for specific issues), areas to engage the client, and potentiation targets for change to address in the treatment planning including potential barriers where applicable. 

 

As you are writing your narrative include the application of theories to your case.  This is your chance to demonstrate you understand how theory links to actual case details.  There is an excerpt paragraph below as an example to help you understand the depth of the assignment expectation regarding applying theory to your case. ( you will not earn full credit if you simply repeat the theories listed on the website)

Insert the chart first and then write the narrative. Don't forget the full diagnosis.  The narrative portion of your paper should be at least 2 pages. (in-text citations are not required for this paper)

 

 

Short Example of how to link theory to the case narrative (theories are in bold font)

Client 1

Multiple theories and frameworks can used to conceptualize Gregory’s case. Using  a social learning lens Gregory’s alcohol use could be indicative of  modeling as well as a  biological link through  genetics. Gregory’s father abused alcohol while he was in his care, which he witnessed and thereby  modeled the maladaptive behavior. Additionally, as his mother with Borderline personality disorder diagnosis, genetics could explain his later development of the disorder which has a strong genetic component. From a  systems perspective it is clear Gregory’s early experiences and interactions within his home and low SES community (victim of domestic violence, witness to interpersonal violence, murder, “ghetto”) presented him with a wide range of maladaptive adult interactions. The extended roots of  Psychodynamic theory informs us that Gregory’s early childhood neglect and home discord would most likely result in a  disorganized/disoriented attachment style.