In this interactive assignment, you will create a story for children to educate them about psychological assessment. To begin, select a targeted developmental or reading level pre-K through grade 6.
Review the information in Chapter 5 of your textbook corresponding to the assessments appropriate for the age group you selected and review the Mental Health Assessment (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. (2013) article for examples of information provided to the public about psychological testing. You may choose any appropriate title for your story. Be sure to address each of the following questions in your storybook in an age-appropriate manner:
- Why is the character in the story being referred for testing?
- Who will conduct the assessment?
- What is being measured?
- How long will testing take?
- Who will be present during the assessment process? If not in the room, where will parents and/or guardians be while the character in the story is being tested?
- How will the results be used? Who will have access to the results (e.g., medical doctor, family, the court, teachers), and why? This will vary depending on the character and plot in your story.
- How will the tests be taken?
- What will be the outcome of the assessment? How will the information be used? How might this information impact the life of the character in your story?
Include content to address any developmentally appropriate fears that individuals of the age group you selected may have. For example, young children commonly associate going to the doctor with getting a shot.
Be sure to include all the required material from the instructions above in your online storybook. Once you have created your storybook, include the link in your initial post. In your initial post, note the age or grade level for the target audience of the story. Briefly analyze and comment on the challenges and benefits related to explaining psychological assessment concepts using language that is developmentally appropriate for children. Compare at least two assessment instruments used to assess intelligence or achievement for the age group you selected. Include in-text citations and references for all sources used.
Note: It is highly recommended you complete all written work in a separate document first and then cut and paste the required content into your online storybook. This will allow you to edit and save your work separately from the online storybook, should any technical failures occur. This approach will also allow you to work on your content without having to remain connected to the Internet, which will make it easier to develop and edit your content prior to publishing it to your online storybook.
If you experience any technical difficulties, please visit the Storybird Help Center (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.. The technical support offered through your Student Portal will not be able to assist you with the Storybird website.
Note to Students: This assignment requires that you produce a visual presentation, supply a spoken audio narrative, and to listen the audio narrative of others. Note you are also asked to provide a transcript of your presentation. If you have a documented disability accommodation that might interfere with your ability to complete this assignment you may contact your instructor to develop a comparable alternative assignment.
What Are Mental Health Assessments?
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What to Expect
- When a Child Needs an Assessment
- Concerned About a Loved One?
A mental health assessment is when a professional -- like your family doctor, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist -- checks to see if you might have a mental problem and what type of treatment may help.
Everyone goes through tough times. But sometimes, the negative way someone feels inside -- depressed, anxious, wanting to avoid people, having trouble thinking -- may be more than the ups and downs most people feel now and then. If symptoms like these start to get in the way of your life, or that of a loved one, it's important to take action. Research shows that getting help early can prevent symptoms from getting worse and make a full recovery more likely.
The first step is to get a mental health assessment. It usually involves a couple of different things. You may answer questions verbally, get physical tests, and fill out a questionnaire.
What to Expect
Physical exam. Sometimes a physical illness can cause symptoms that mimic those of a mental illness. A physical exam can help find if something else, such as a thyroid disorder or a neurologic problem, may be at play. Tell your doctor about any physical or mental health conditions that you already know you have, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs you take, and any supplements you use.
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Lab tests. Your doctor may order bloodwork, a urine test, a brain scan, or other tests to rule out a physical condition. You will probably also answer questions about drug and alcohol use.
Mental health history. Your doctor will ask questions about how long you've had your symptoms, your personal or family history of mental health issues, and any psychiatric treatment you've had.
Personal history. Your doctor may also ask questions about your lifestyle or personal history: Are you married? What sort of work do you do? Did you ever serve in the military? Have you ever been arrested? What was your upbringing like? Your doctor may ask you to list the biggest sources of stressin your life or any major traumas you've had.
Mental evaluation. You'll answer questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You may be asked about your symptoms in more detail, such as how they affect your day-to-day life, what makes them better or worse, and whether and how you've tried to manage them on your own. Your doctor will also observe your appearance and behavior: Are you irritable, shy, or aggressive? Do you make eye contact? Are you talkative? How do you appear, compared with others your age?
Cognitive evaluation. During the assessment, your doctor will gauge your ability to think clearly, recall information, and use mental reasoning. You may take tests of basic tasks, like focusing your attention, remembering short lists, recognizing common shapes or objects, or solving simple math problems. You may answer questions about your ability to do daily responsibilities, like caring for yourself or going to work.
When a Child Needs an Assessment
Just like adults, children can get mental health assessments that involve a series of observations and tests by professionals.
Since it can be hard for very young children to explain what they're thinking and feeling, the particular screening measures often depend on the child's age. The doctor will also ask parents, teachers, or other caregivers about what they've noticed. A pediatrician can do these evaluations, or you may get referred to another professional who specializes in children's mental health.
Concerned About a Loved One?
If you think that a friend or family member is having symptoms, don't be afraid to start a conversation about mental health. Let them know you care, remind them that mental illness can be treated, and offer to help connect them with a professional who can help.
Although you may not be able to force a loved one to seek diagnosis or treatment, you can raise concerns about their mental health with their general physician. Because of privacy laws, don't expect any information in return. But if your family member is in the care of a mental health professional, the provider is allowed to share information with you if your loved one allows that.
If you think your loved one may harm themselves, that is an emergency situation. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (800-273-TALK) or 911 immediately.