Disease Model Versus Positive Psychology Worksheet
Read the scenario and answer the questions in no less than 200 words each. Support your responses with detail from this week’s assigned video and reading. Include APA-formatted citations and references.
William is a 44-year old project manager for a large commercial construction firm. He started out as a gifted carpenter who greatly enjoyed designing and building custom furniture. However, after several promotions, he focuses on bringing in new business. He spends many work hours at his computer or on the telephone. He is divorced and rarely sees his two daughters. In recent years, he has gained weight and is displeased with his appearance, but has no interest in or energy for exercise. He does not sleep well because he worries about business problems at night. He was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure. Although he is financially secure, he rarely takes vacations or socializes outside of the office. He has begun to feel that his life is pointless.
1. Discuss William’s situation from the perspective of traditional psychology. What information would be most important? What conclusions and recommendations might be made by a psychologist working from the disease model?
William is experiencing unhappiness due to traumatic experiences in his life. He is experiencing negative emotions due to depression. This disease must be treated so that William can lead a happier life. Martin Seligman states that the disease model is dominant in psychology and it focuses on the importance of treating illnesses rather than building strengths Baumgardner, Crothers, (2009). Traditional Psychology would focus on the behaviors that Williams is exhibiting. Traditional Psychology focuses on the disease model. William is exhibiting behaviors that are usually associated
