separation anxiety disorder
Write a term paper that contains five full pages describing separation anxiety 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
Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive fear and distress when separated from family or other loved ones. These feelings of worry can be so intense that they interfere with daily life and activities. Symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, restlessness, difficulty concentrating and physical symptoms such as nausea or dizziness (American Psychiatric Association 2013).
Biologically speaking, SAD could be caused by an imbalance in brain chemicals like serotonin which affects mood regulation (Dugdale III et al., 2018). Psychologically speaking, unresolved trauma or difficulty managing emotions can contribute to the development of this condition (Fink & Kraynak 2016). Socially speaking, family dynamics can also play a role in exacerbating episodes; for example poor communication within the family unit or lack of support from relatives may worsen symptoms (Taslimi & Zarghami 2011).
Treatment varies from person to person but options may include psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy which helps individuals learn how to manage their distress when separated from loved ones. Additionally medications like SSRIs regulate chemistry levels while benzodiazepines are used at times to reduce panic attacks associated with SAD (Walker et al., 2015). Although there is no cure currently available for Separation Anxiety Disorder it is possible to manage with lifestyle changes along with psychological interventions when necessary. Supportive care structures may also help reduce stressors that contribute to exacerbation of symptomology.
In conclusion, Separation Anxiety Disorder has multiple causes ranging from neurological abnormalities to environmental difficulties which must be taken into account when seeking treatment. Through supportive care structures including family interactions combined with therapeutic methods like cognitive behavioral therapy along with medications when necessary those affected by this disease have potential to lead fulfilling lives despite their condition.
