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Unit 27 : Case Study

lab research is not possible or practical. In undergraduate courses, these are often based on a real Notes
individual, an imagined individual, or a character from a television show, film, or book.
The specific format for a case study can vary greatly. In some instances, your case study will focus
solely on the individual of interest. Other possible requirements include citing relevant research
and background information on a particular topic. Always consult with your instructor for a detailed
outline of your assignment. The following format is often used in undergraduate courses for
psychotherapy case studies.
27.5.1 Case History

(i) Background Information
The first section of your paper will present your client’s background. Include factors such as
age, gender, work, health status, family mental health history, family and social relationships,
drug and alcohol history, life difficulties, goals and coping skills and weaknesses.

(ii) Description of the Presenting Problem
In the next section of your case study, you will describe the problem or symptoms that the
client presented with. Describe any physical, emotional or sensory symptoms reported by the
client. Thoughts, feelings, and perceptions related to the symptoms should also be noted. Any
screening or diagnostic assessments that are used should also be described in detail and all
scores reported.
(iii) Your Diagnosis
Provide your diagnosis and give the appropriate Diagnostic and Statistical Manual code. Explain
how you reached your diagnosis, how the clients symptoms fit the diagnostic criteria for the
disorder(s), or any possible difficulties in reaching a diagnosis.
27.5.2 Intervention
The second section of your paper will focus on the intervention used to help the client. Your instructor
might require you to choose from a particular theoretical approach or ask you to summarize two or
more possible treatment approaches.
(i) Psychoanalytic Approach
Describe how a psychoanalytic therapist would view the client’s problem. Provide some
background on the psychoanalytic approach and cite relevant references. Explain how
psychoanalytic therapy would be used to treat the client, how the client would respond to
therapy and the effectiveness of this treatment approach.
(ii) Cognitive-Behavioral Approach
Explain how a cognitive-behavioral therapist would approach treatment. Offer background
information on cognitive-behavioral therapy and describe the treatment sessions, client response
and outcome of this type of treatment. Make note of any difficulties or successes encountered
by your client during treatment.
(iii) Humanistic Approach
Describe a humanistic approach that could be used to treat your client. Provide information on
the type of treatment you chose, the client’s reaction to the treatment and the end result of this
approach. Explain why the treatment was successful or unsuccessful.

27.6 Strength of Case Study

• Provides detailed (rich qualitative) information
• Provides insight for further research

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