Disease Model Versus Positive Psychology Worksheet ✓ Solved

Read the scenario and answer the questions in no less than 200 words each. Support your responses with detail from this week’s assigned video and reading. Include APA-formatted citations and references. William is a 44-year old project manager for a large commercial construction firm. He started out as a gifted carpenter who greatly enjoyed designing and building custom furniture. However, after several promotions, he focuses on bringing in new business. He spends many work hours at his computer or on the telephone. He is divorced and rarely sees his two daughters. In recent years, he has gained weight and is displeased with his appearance, but has no interest in or energy for exercise. He does not sleep well because he worries about business problems at night. He was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure. Although he is financially secure, he rarely takes vacations or socializes outside of the office. He has begun to feel that his life is pointless.

1. Discuss William’s situation from the perspective of traditional psychology. What information would be most important? What conclusions and recommendations might be made by a psychologist working from the disease model?

2. Discuss William’s situation from the perspective of positive psychology. What information would be most important? What conclusions and recommendations might be made by a psychologist working from the positive psychology model?

Paper For Above Instructions

In examining William's situation through the lens of traditional psychology, we must consider the framework of the disease model, which emphasizes understanding psychological issues primarily as pathological conditions that can be diagnosed and treated. Traditional psychology focuses on symptoms, underlying mental health issues, and maladaptive behaviors that may contribute to William's current state of distress.

The most pertinent information about William includes his reported lack of interest in activities he once enjoyed, such as designing and building custom furniture. His dissatisfaction with his appearance, partner, and the quality of his relationships—especially with his daughters—coupled with his insomnia, weight gain, and recent diagnosis of high blood pressure, are significant indicators of his potential psychological distress. Conventional psychological approaches may delve into these symptoms to diagnose a condition such as depression or anxiety, both of which could stem from William's lifestyle changes and personal issues.

A psychologist operating from the disease model is likely to conclude that William is in a state of psychological crisis that warrants intervention, possibly through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication for his anxiety and depression. Recommendations may include lifestyle changes focusing on increased physical activity and finding social support to address his feelings of isolation. Psychoeducation might also be provided to help William understand the interplay between his psychological and physical health—emphasizing how stress management and healthy coping mechanisms can influence both his mental and physical well-being (Beck, 2011).

From the traditional perspective, the emphasis is on recognizing William's symptoms as expressions of underlying psychopathology, emphasizing management through clinical intervention. Traditional psychology thus seeks to understand the disruptive nature of William's life through the prism of mental health and pathology, aiming for a return to a more stable state of being with the appropriate treatment strategies.

On the other hand, considering William’s predicament through the lens of positive psychology brings a different perspective that emphasizes human flourishing, strengths, and well-being. Positive psychology's central tenet is fostering mental resilience, emphasizing growth and fulfillment rather than merely treating dysfunction. In this context, the vital pieces of information would shift from his 'deficits' to his strengths: his professional accomplishments, skills as a carpenter, and financial security. Despite his current feelings of purposelessness, positive psychology highlights the importance of what makes life meaningful and fulfilling (Seligman, 2011).

Upon analyzing William’s case from the viewpoint of positive psychology, we can derive potential conclusions that center on his immediate needs for engagement, connection, and enjoyment. A positive psychologist might recommend building on William's strengths by encouraging him to reconnect with activities he previously enjoyed, such as crafting custom furniture. Through setting small, achievable goals, like engaging in creative projects or initiating family outings, he may begin to reclaim a sense of purpose and build quality relationships with his daughters. Additionally, exploring positive emotions and gratitude exercises can further assist in reframing his current mindset from one of despair to hopefulness (Fredrickson, 2004).

Social interactions and support groups also play crucial roles in promoting enhanced well-being. Due to his financial stability, William can afford to participate in activities that promote well-being, such as joining a workshop or class related to his craftsmanship, which may offer avenues for socialization. Suggesting that William takes regular vacations is also valuable, enabling him to recharge mentally and physically, thus fostering an overall sense of well-being (Ryan & Deci, 2001).

In essence, while traditional psychology seeks to address William's symptoms through diagnostic interventions, positive psychology focuses on enhancing his quality of life through positive experiences and self-discovery. The ultimate goal of positive psychology in William's case would be to create a life that resonates with meaning, engagement, and purpose through his existing strengths and resources, thus promoting greater overall mental health.

References

  • Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond. Guilford Press.

  • Fredrickson, B. L. (2004). The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 359(1449), 1367-1377.

  • Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2001). On happiness and human potentials: A review of research on hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. Annual Review of Psychology, 52(1), 141-166.

  • Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-Being. Free Press.

  • Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press.

  • Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Harper & Row.

  • Vaillant, G. E. (2002). Adaptive Mental Mechanisms: Their Role in Affective Life. Harvard University Press.

  • Lyubomirsky, S., Sheldon, K. M., & Schkade, D. (2005). Pursuing happiness: The architecture of sustainable change. Review of General Psychology, 9(2), 111-131.

  • Diener, E. (2000). Subjective well-being. The Science of Happiness, 5(1), 34-39.

  • Fredrickson, B. L., & Losada, M. F. (2005). Positive affect and the complex dynamics of human flourishing. American Psychologist, 60(7), 678-686.