For this assignment, select a fictional film or TV show in which a certain type of mental illness (described below) features prominently. Specifically, select a film or show in which a character demonstrates any of the following disorders:
An anxiety disorder
An obsessive-compulsive disorder
A mood disorder (e.g., Major Depressive disorder, Bipolar I disorder)
Schizophrenia
Attention-deficit hyper-activity disorder
An autism spectrum disorder
Post traumatic Stress Disorder
A substance use disorder
An eating disorder
Borderline personality disorder
These types of disorders have been specified because they all have a significant research base and have known biological, social, and cognitive/emotional contributors, which will allow you to complete all aspects of the assignment.
A list of possible films and shows is posted below;
Select ONE character from within this film who most clearly demonstrates one of these forms of psychopathology.
Across approximately five to eight pages (double spaced), please address the following:
Briefly, describe the character’s presenting symptoms and what diagnoses you think they would meet. If they do not clearly meet full criteria, discuss which diagnoses would be most relevant.
Discuss what is known about the symptoms, prevalence, and course of the primary relevant disorder.
Describe the biological processes that are believed contribute to the onset, maintenance, and progression of this disorder.
Describe the social factors that are believed contribute to the onset, maintenance, and progression of this disorder.
Describe the emotional/cognitive processes that are believed contribute to the onset, maintenance, and progression of this disorder.
Briefly, describe how these processes are applicable to the specific character.
Discuss what, if anything, is inaccurate about how this disorder is portrayed. If the portrayal seems reasonably accurate, discuss common misconceptions about the disorder and how the film/show avoids those pitfalls.
