Problem
Read the following case study:
When he was growing up, Emmett was the youngest child of three. His parents loved him very much; however, they had to work several jobs to pay the rent, so they were often tired or busy. He never felt like he fit in at school, being somewhat poorer than his peers and also being bullied. Emmett did have a small group of friends. He got "mediocre" grades (his words) but managed to get on to teacher training himself, enjoying a structured classroom environment. He briefly mentioned that his brother and sister have "done very well", and that likewise he "wants to make his parents proud". In his social life, his last romantic relationship ended two years ago. It seems that his partner frequently made critical and negative comments, and asked him not to see his friends.
You have noticed that Emmett often asks your opinion on what he should do. He also asks frequently whether you have ever experienced anything similar to him, and tries to ask about your personal life (e.g. what school was like for you, whether you are happy in your job). He wants to "fix" his problems, believing there will be a right answer. He has mentioned that sometimes he feels overwhelmed and hits the wall in his garage with his fist. Emmett has also asked you about the confidentiality of sessions, several times.
Instructions
Part A: Formulation and measuring outcomes (two thousand words)
Choose one psychological theory (e.g. CBT, CAT), and start to make a formulation of this person's difficulties. Explain what further information you would gather, to complete your formulation (this 'further information' should be justified based on the psychological theory you have selected).
Secondly, consider the outcome measures you might use, and justify your reasons for this.
Throughout this essay you must evaluate the strengths and limitations of the approach you have chosen.
(Note: You do not need a full or perfect formulation. This question is about how you would apply psychological theory and knowledge to a real formulation.)
Part B: Therapeutic relationships and ethics (1000 words)
What factors would you consider when trying to develop an effective therapeutic relationship with this person, and what ethical considerations arise?
Include reflections about yourself and your own background, and how that might impact on the therapeutic relationship. Refer to psychological theory and BPS guidelines in your answer.
Learning Outcomes
a) Critically evaluate a range of theoretical approaches to psychological distress.
b) Understand the principles of psychological formulation and how these relate to mental health interventions.
c) Demonstrate the skills to evaluate and use the evidence base in relation to interventions for psychological distress.
d) Demonstrate personal reflective thinking around the 'therapeutic relationship', and awareness of ethical practice.