Discussion questions

file:///Users/suizaring/Downloads/First%20Person%20Accounts%20-%20Susan's%20Story-1.pdf

A. Summary and reflection on the essay

1. What diagnosis & symptoms does the author describe in their essay?
2. What do you think is the author's primary goal, or take-home message, for the reader?
3. What are your observations about the developmental aspects of this essay? Describe at least one aspect of the person's story that relates to an important aspect of developmental psychology. For instance, discuss how you think their experiences relate to their particular stage of life, how their experiences link to their experiences with parenting, their cognitive development, etc.
4. Describe at least one aspect of the person's experiences that reflects important social and/or cultural factors. Be specific about what social/cultural factors are important in this person's story. Be careful not to make superficial assumptions or base your observations on cultural stereotypes or generalizations - reflect thoughtfully on this person's own words. How do they describe their social and/or their cultural world? How do these influences shape the author's experiences and their story?

B. Understanding the diagnosis.

1. Description and symptoms - provide a summary/overview of the main features of this condition, including the key symptoms that are part of the diagnosis.

2. Describe basic prevalence information and statistical information/facts about the diagnosis. How common is this diagnosis in the US population? Provide at least 2 other facts about the diagnosis based on your research.

3. Causes and risk factors - about what the known causes or risk factors are for this condition.

4. Treatment - about what types of treatment are considered effective for this condition.