Submit a paper which compares and contrasts two mental health theories:
- You may choose your theories from the textbook or from other sources.
- Describe each theory, including some history about the person who
developed the theory and the major ideas and applications of the
theory.
- Describe the ways in which the two theories are similar, and how they differ.
- Include a statement of how each theory could be used in your
nursing practice. Include specific patient examples if you have them.
You may also critique the theory: Is there anything with which you
disagree or are there any problems you can identify?
- It is expected that this essay will be 2-3 pages in length (not
including the title page), double-spaced. Your paper should include an
introduction and conclusion and proper APA citations from any source
material you use, including your text.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
This paper aims to compare and contrast two mental health theories. The selected theories are Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) and Psychodynamic Theory. The history, major ideas, and applications of each theory will be described, and the similarities and differences will be analyzed. Additionally, the potential use of these theories in nursing practice, including specific patient examples, will be discussed. Lastly, the paper will include a critique of the theories, including any identified problems or disagreements. Proper APA citations will be utilized throughout the paper.
Answer:
Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) and Psychodynamic Theory are two significant theories used in mental health practice today. CBT was developed by Aaron Beck in the 1960s (Beck, 2011), whereas Psychodynamic Theory was initially described by Sigmund Freud in the 1890s (American Psychological Association, 2016). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy primarily focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors in patients through the use of practical strategies, emphasizing a person’s current situation and the future (Mackenzie & Kwiecien, 2015). On the other hand, Psychodynamic Theory stresses unconscious motives and experiences that impact the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves within the present (Laska, Gurman, & Wampold, 2014).
The two theories share some similarities, such as their holistic approach to treatment. Both theories agree that a person’s past experiences and current circumstances influence their behavior. Moreover, they both believe in the importance of the therapist-patient relationship. However, they differ in several ways. CBT is oriented towards a patient’s immediate concerns, based on identifying problematic thought patterns and behaviors, and then modifying them (Mackenzie & Kwiecien, 2015). Alternatively, Psychodynamic Theory emphasizes a patient’s lengthy treatment (up to years) to uncover unconscious thoughts and behaviors that have led to the problem (Laska et al., 2014).
In my nursing practice, these theories can be used to assess, manage, and provide care to patients with various mental health issues. For instance, a patient with anxiety-related disorders can be treated using both CBT and Psychodynamic therapies. CBT can help to assist the patient in identifying negative behaviors and thoughts associated with the anxiety. In contrast, Psychodynamic therapy can be helpful in exploring the root causes of the anxiety, which may not be readily apparent.
However, it should be noted that these theories, while useful, are not without potential criticisms. For example, while Psychodynamic Theory has provided an essential perspective on therapy, some therapists and scholars have criticized it for its lack of empirical data and limiting focus on anxiety and sexual drive (American Psychological Association, 2016). Similarly, CBT has been criticized for a lack of focus on the patient’s underlying emotional and psychological issues, instead of the assessment of the symptomatology of current disorders (Mackenzie & Kwiecien, 2015).
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while both CBT and Psychodynamic Theory have similarities and differences, they can both be beneficial in treating a variety of mental health issues. Nursing practice can use these theories to help patients in different ways, such as assessing, managing, and providing care to patients with a range of mental health difficulties. Despite the potential criticisms, these theories have provided significant and distinct perspectives in understanding mental health.
