Understanding Abnormality and Its Treatment-Nursing Paper Examples-1

D. L. Rosenhan and Robert L. Spitzer Arguments (Understanding Abnormality and Its Treatment)

The argument on whether diagnostic labels on the sanity of an individual hinder treatment attracted two conflicting arguments from D. L. Rosenhan and Robert L. Spitzer. Rosenhan argues that when a person labeled as schizophrenic, his behavior remains seen to be so by the mental health worker regardless of the actual mental health state of the patient (Rosenhan, 1973). Spitzer on the other hand claims that the diagnostic labels on the patients are usually valuable and necessary (Understanding Abnormality and Its Treatment).

Consequently, with a suggestion that the experiment conducted by Rosenhan has many noticeable flaws. The Spitzer argument is more convincing than Rosenhan’s. Moreover, since any diagnosis made on a patient remains on basis on the behavior of that patient. It is opposed to Rosenhan’s argument that diagnosis always appear in the observer’s mind. Consequently, in his conclusion, he says that in the institution during the experiment, psychiatrists able to distinguish between insane and sane persons.

The diagnostic system facilitates the diagnosis of diseases which helps in identifying the causative factors. In addition, possible ways of treating the disorder. Diagnosing a disorder would ensure that the most effective methods of treatment are applied hence making the diagnostic system worthwhile (Understanding Abnormality and Its Treatment).

Diagnostic systems in the psychiatric systems remain necessary for ensuring proper communication between the mental health professionals concerning the subject matter of the issue in their concern. A better understanding of the psychiatric illness processes and manifestations, and monitoring the psychiatric disorders (Telles-Correia et al., 2018). Without the diagnostic system, these could not be achieved.

The main arguments drawn in the argument include Rosenhan’s argument that diagnostic labels do not serve a useful purpose. Particularly on the view of harm impacted while Spitzer argues that they enable psychiatrists to be able to communicate, comprehend and even control the disorders (Rosenhan, 1973). As much as people may find the system stigmatizing, the system remain very crucial to a psychiatric patient (Understanding Abnormality and Its Treatment).

Furthermore, as it would facilitate an informed and effective treatment process. Also helpS in identifying the best treatment forms to prescribe. Moreover, the argument remains on whether mental institution settings consider all behaviors abnormal. Consequently, whether the psychiatric diagnosis remains in the mind of observers or based on symptoms (Telles-Correia et al., 2018). Diagnosis of any disorder made based on reported symptoms, medical signs, and test results on a patient. Hence it remains incorrect to rule out that a healthcare giver diagnoses based on his/her thoughts.

References

Rosenhan, D. L. (1973). On being sane in insane places. Science, 179(4070), 250-258.

Telles-Correia, D., Saraiva, S., & Gonçalves, J. (2018). Mental Disorder-The Need for an Accurate Definition. Frontiers in psychiatry, 9, 64 https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00064