Do you think the psychological symptoms are caused by a medical condition or a psychological disorder?
Read the vignette below then answer the questions for the assignment.
MASQUERADE
After a rageful outburst, during which she threw furniture and threatened her family, a 48 year-old woman was committed to a hospital. Eight years earlier (age 40), this previously healthy and accomplished academic administrator had complained of fatigue and tingling sensations in her arms. At the time, a medical examination failed to detect any problem.
Over the next several years, the woman underwent several changes. She became sluggish and fatigued. Her ability to concentrate and solve simple problems declined. Outwardly, she appeared to age prematurely as her skin grew pale, dry, and excessively wrinkled. She gained weight and started to lose her hair. Her mood was depressed and irritable and she was having trouble sleeping. By the time she was finally admitted to a psychiatric hospital she spoke in a deep husky voice and exhibited blatant paranoid delusions.
She had no prior history of psychological disorders.
1. Do you think the psychological symptoms are caused by a medical condition or a psychological disorder?
2. How do the following support that cause?
1. age
2. timeline
3. trigger
4. medical/psychological history
3. Based on the symptoms, which specific brain regions, neurotransmitters or hormones have been impacted?
4. Can you identify the specific medical condition or psychological disorder presented?
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