Clinical Assessment

Clinical Assessment

Misty Sprague

PSY/270

March 9, 2014

Brian Stepp

Clinical Assessment

Based on the limited information provided in this scenario, there are other questions that I would like to see answered. The very first step I would take, before asking for more information from the adoptive parents, is to remove Clara from the room and place her in an atmosphere that better suites her, like a play room located in the office building. After Clara is removed from the office, I would start of by asking if the adoption was an open adoption, and the age when Clara was adopted. If the adoption was not an open adoption, the true parents of Clara could be trying to make contact with her while she is away from her adoptive parents. This can cause confusion for Clara, and may possibly be one reason her behavior has all of a sudden changed. I would also ask how long they have had Clara, and if they had any information on Clara’s biological parents. If they did have background information on the biological parents, I would want to find out if there was a history of any psychological disorders or mental illnesses that could include; depression, anxiety, personality disorders, or any learning disabilities. I would ask if anything changed in their household since they noticed changes in Clara’s behavior. Some changes could include, moving, changing work hours, or changing preschools. I would ask how the marriage is between Mr. and Mrs. Lawson. Do they fight or argue when Clara is present? I would ask how the teachers, and kids are in the preschool Clara is attending. I want to know how the teachers and kids are because there could be something occurring at the preschool involving another child or some of the other kids, and/or teachers. I would also want to know when Clara throws her temper tantrums. Is it when she is told no, or is it when she does not get her way? Is it when she is getting ready for or being dropped off at preschool, anytime her parents are not...