Module 3: Discussion Forum - Neurological Disease
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Identify and learn about a neurological disease that has a notable effect on behavior.
Instructions
a) Search and choose a specific medical condition that affects the brain and the person's behavior. It should be a disorder that can be misdiagnosed as a psychological disorder if physiological factors are not considered.
b) Briefly discuss the illness selected and how it changes a person's behavior or personality. Please explain why you selected it. Also, include a paragraph describing how psychologists can differentiate these symptoms to conclude there may be a physiological component to consider when treating the patient.
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The neurological disease that I have chosen to discuss is Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia and primarily affects older individuals.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, causing the loss of connections between nerve cells. As a result, individuals with Alzheimer's experience a decline in cognitive abilities and memory loss. However, the disease also has a notable effect on behavior and personality.
People with Alzheimer's disease may exhibit changes in their behavior, including irritability, anxiety, aggression, and agitation. They may also become socially withdrawn or exhibit inappropriate behavior in certain situations. These changes in behavior can often be mistaken for psychological disorders, such as depression or anxiety, if the underlying physiological factors are not considered.
To differentiate these symptoms and conclude that there may be a physiological component to consider when treating the patient, psychologists can look for certain characteristics. Firstly, psychologists can assess the onset and progression of the symptoms. Alzheimer's disease typically has a slow and gradual onset, with symptoms worsening over time. Psychologists can also look for other cognitive impairments, such as memory loss or difficulty with language, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.
In addition, psychologists can conduct neuropsychological assessments to evaluate the individual's cognitive functioning. These assessments can help identify specific impairments in memory, attention, and executive functioning, which are commonly seen in Alzheimer's disease.
Finally, neuroimaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or positron emission tomography (PET), can be used to visualize brain abnormalities associated with Alzheimer's disease, such as shrinkage of certain brain regions or increased amyloid accumulation.
By considering these factors and conducting a thorough evaluation, psychologists can differentiate the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease from psychological disorders, allowing for appropriate treatment and care for the patient. It is important for psychologists to collaborate with physicians and neurologists to ensure a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.
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