Interview with Clara

Brittany Urban

Clinical Assessments

January 14, 2013

PSY-270

Katia Araugo

University of Phoenix AXIA College

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Clinical Assessment of Clara Lawson

- What information would I like to know through this interview and what are questions I would ask?

I would like to understand Clara’s behaviors. Why they happen and what influences them. What are her genetics from her birth family would also be information I would like to know, maybe there would be a connection somewhere. I would also like to know what Clara’s behavior regiments are, i.e how is she disciplined? She may just be rebelling. Some questions I would ask the family are: how do the other children at school treat Clara? Does she nap at school? What kinds of foods does Clara eat at school? What do you notice happening right before Clara’s fits? If you catch it in time can it be redirected? All of these questions would help me find an answer to why she is acting the way she is.

- What clinical assessment tools should I consider and why?

I would consider her brain functions. What she likes and dislikes. How she operates to certain situations. What makes her feel a certain way and is it good or bad. Focusing on these assessments would allow me to get a more secure feeling for Clara and show her that she can trust me.

- What factors should I consider for designing and effective intervention for the Lawson family?

I would consider factors such as Time of day, Place (is it comfortable for Clara, is it going to help me see what sets Clara off), and Attitudes (is

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Clara already upset, if so why?). All of these factors will help me make the best decision and help to understand Clara’s behaviors.

- DSM-IV

Looking at the behaviors and characteristics of Clara I would put her eating and sleeping disturbances is Axis 1. I would not put anything in Axis 2. In...