Predictors of the Development of a Psychotic Disorder

As a social worker, it is important to look at a client’s family history, demographics, past treatments, and background. A research article, by author Young et al., (2004) illustrated that there are few known factors that predict having psychosis symptoms. Their research demonstrated that one’s family history of psychic symptoms can be a risk factor to predict having a psychotic disorder. Another predictor these authors discussed is a decrease in life functioning skills, which they found can lead to psychotic disorders.

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As social workers, we need to examine our clients individually and their symptoms. We need to focus on their strengths and identify areas of growth. It is essential for social workers to be ethically and culturally sensitive while reviewing client’s psychotic symptoms and disorders. Researcher, Padma (2014) studied the difference between people experiencing psychotic symptoms in different countries. Padma concluded the social and cultural context effect the person experiencing the disorder. This is important information for social workers to have while working with patients experiencing mental health disorders. Being culturally sensitive and learning how one’s family and cultural background impact their condition is critical. From a social work perspective, it is necessary to look into the context of one’s family history and childhood upbringing. Looking at one’s demographics will give the social worker an insight into what the patient is experiencing and why.

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Compelling Hypothesis

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Robin Murrary discussed his experiences working in psychiatry and how there are few rock solid answers in what schizophrenia is and how it is diagnosed. Mr. Murray discussed how it has not been proven schizophrenia is biological and genetic. Mr. Murray states how he wishes schizophrenia was viewed and diagnosed on a continuum, similar to how weight is viewed. After reading the materials, I find Mr. Murray’s hypotheses are most compelling because viewing prognosis of schizophrenia on a spectrum helps to not stigmatize the symptoms and explains the symptoms in a way individual will comprehend (Murray, 2013).

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Social Works Role in Services

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After reading and analyzing the class readings I saw common theme so miscommunication between providers, and insurance coverage issues causing obstacles to client care. Client want strength based, and patient center care but not all providers are educated that way like social workers are trained. Authors, Lietz et al., (2014) discussed the importance of recognizing the impact providers have of limiting their patient’s self-sufficiency and self-esteem can have on their recovery and treatment. When a provider tells a patient, they are going to need medication forever this is an example of limiting a client’s ability to have control of their care and esteem. One micro effect of miscommunication on services between providers is a patient will get too much different information, impacting their treatment negatively. Providers don’t communicate or have different ideas of recovery this can impact their client’s successes. One macro effect of this is hospitals having less room for patients due to clients not recovering and being discharged than returning to the hospital. This can cause hospitals to limit the length of stays at the hospital if they don’t have enough room for their patients.