Agoraphobia
Write a term paper that contains five full pages describing Agoraphobia disorder from a biopsychosocial perspective.
Describe the disorder in terms of symptoms, describe biological, psychological, and social causes of the disorder and include information about treatment.
Symptoms may be described in terms of emotional symptoms, cognitive symptoms, behavioral symptoms, somatic symptoms, and impairment in social and occupational functioning.
Biological explanations may include the following: Brain structure and function, genetics, hormones, evolution/natural selection, neurotransmitters (oversupply, under supply, dysfunction)
Psychological explanations may include the following: Learning, memory, personality traits, cognition (thought patterns), trauma/stress, emotion/mood
Sociocultural explanations may include the following: Gender roles, socioeconomic status, locations (city or rural), school/education, cultural values, poverty
Treatment may include medications, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, group therapy, client centered therapy
Sample Solution
Agoraphobia is a psychological disorder characterized by an intense fear of being in or entering certain places or situations, such as public areas, open spaces, crowds and transportation (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). It is often associated with panic attacks which can cause severe anxiety. Symptoms usually include difficulty leaving home for long periods of time, feeling overwhelmed in social settings, and feeling trapped in uncomfortable situations (APA, 2013).
From a biopsychosocial perspective, agoraphobia has multiple causes attributed to biological predispositions as well as environmental conditions. Research suggests that genetic factors influence the development of agoraphobia (Lancioni et al., 2016). Stressful life events may also contribute to developing this disorder; however it is not clear whether these are causal factors or consequences of the illness itself (Garcia-Esteve et al., 2010). Environmental influences have been linked to the development of agoraphobia – for example parental modeling behaviors and childhood trauma are both potential risk factors for this condition (Kazarian & Freyd 2009).
Treatment for agoraphobia typically involves cognitive behavioural therapy or exposure therapy designed to help individuals confront their fears and reduce anxious responses to particular places or objects (Hofmann et al., 2012). These therapies focus on addressing thoughts and beliefs that perpetuate agitation while involving gradual re-entry into fearful environments. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be prescribed alongside psychotherapy but must be used cautiously due to certain side effects they can produce.
Overall, agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder with complex causes attributing both biological predispositions and environmental influences. The most effective treatment plan includes both psychotherapy combined with medications when necessary. The goal of treatment is to help individuals manage their anxious responses so they no longer limit participation in everyday activities.
