Overview
Alicia is a 7-year old African-American girl in second grade, she belongs to a high socioeconomic status family living in an urban locality. Alicia was a wanted child but born out a committed marriage. She is the first of three. Maternal health during pregnancy was normal, but the period of labor was prolonged beyond 18 hours, so a lower-segment cesarean section was performed. There was no history of birth-related complications, and her birth weight was 2.80kg. Alicia attained developmental milestones as per age. She had a temperament characterized by high activity levels, below-average threshold of distractibility, average ability to sustain attention and persist, easy to warm, adaptation to new situations, and regular bowel and bladder habits.
She was enrolled in school at the age of 4 years and progressed well until 9 months ago when a decline in her academic interest was observed by her class teacher. Deterioration of her handwriting skills and avoidance of group activities in school were observed. One month prior to visiting the clinic, she started insisting on wearing the same dress every day which she would not take off at bedtime and even resisted removing and even resisted removing it at bath time.
In addition, a change in her mood from largely irritable to cheerful was noted. In view of these symptoms, her mother made first contact with a mental health provider. She expresses being anxious about getting her clothes dirty. She even states that there are bugs trying to get her dirty when she walks off the sidewalk. Her teacher noted that Alicia’s activity level had increased. She explained how difficult it is to make her sit quietly in class and she started talking incessantly, a big chance for her. Alicia’s physical examination was normal. Her mental state examination revealed her to be cheerful, overactive, and difficult to interrupt. She sang and danced during the interview.
For this assignment, please discuss the case presented in that learning activity.
Discuss what you choose for the differentials and the most concerning symptoms. Then discuss what diagnosis and treatment would be appropriate for this patient. Be sure to include the rationale for your decisions. Describe what you learned and how this will help you in your practice.
Your assignment should be 2–3 pages answering the questions. Be sure to include a minimum of two scholarly articles (within the last five years) in addition to your course material to support your discussion.