Specific Assignment for Child Focused Counseling
Students will write a 5-8 page paper in APA format (including at least 2
professional references) on a commonly occurring mental disorder of
children/adolescents. Topics might include ADD/ADHD, autism
spectrum disorder, disruptive behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct
disorder), or a mood disorder (See Week 2 DSM diagnoses). You also
may choose as a topic a typical presenting problem such as neglect,
physical or emotional abuse, or suicidal ideation. The paper must
include the following headings:
Heading # 1- Introduction
Introduce your topic and what you want to accomplish in the
paper
Heading #2- Defining the Problem
What is the prevalence of the disorder/presenting problem?
What are the criteria or symptoms used to diagnose the
presenting problem?
What are the problems/special considerations in diagnosing
the disorder/presenting problem in children/adolescents?
Discuss the etiology of the presenting problem as found in
research
Heading #3 – Treatment
What evidenced-based approaches are available in treating the
disorder? If no evidenced-based approaches exist, what are
treatment approaches suggested in the literature?
Describe at least two approaches (medication should not be
used as one of the two approaches. Focus more on the
therapeutic approaches to assist)
What are the strengths/limitations of each approach?
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What approach would you choose and why?
Heading #4 – Conclusion
For your case assignment, make sure to include headings using the
outline given for the paper. The headings will help indicate that you
have covered all areas of the paper and make your paper that much
more organized.