Rolf, a 36-year-old Swedish-American, is a self-employed cabinet maker . For the past ten
months, Rolf has not been consistently showing up for work. Rolf complains of general aches
throughout his body that prevent him from working. Rolf feels there is something seriously
physically wrong with him, but doctor have yet to find a cause of his aches. Rolf ruminates
constantly about his health problems and is very agitated that physicians cannot tell him what is
wrong. Jana, Rolf’s wife, has indicated that he has a history of being sick without any medical
explanation. Rolf takes painkillers and drinks to cope with his aches and pains. Rolf sees
numerous medical doctors and specialists for answers to his pain but resists mental health
services for help. Rolf finally agreed to a mental health consultation after Jana’s insistence.
For most of his adult life, Rolf has always sought to be the center of attention. He is a storyteller
known to embellish his tales with dramatic flair. However, he often adapts his stories based on
the listeners’ reactions or to maintain their interest. Rolf seems attentive in conversations but in
reality he is not listening and would rather do the talking. When it appears that others are not
impressed with his accomplishments, he becomes easily frustrated and angry. Rolf is
preoccupied with his personal appearance and constantly fears growing old.
1. Diagnostic Impressions
Summarize the presenting DSM 5 disorder(s) based on the case.
a. What is the individual’s background (gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, etc.,)?
b. What are your diagnostic impressions (diagnosis) for the case?
c. What are the symptoms and DSM 5 criteria supporting your diagnoses?
2. Additional Factors
After making a diagnosis, identify and discuss possible causes and assessment for confirming the diagnosis. Review
the handout on the Multidimensional Model of Mental Health. Discuss in detail.
a. What are plausible psychological/ cognitive causes for the case? These are internal mechanisms that are
mental, emotional, or coping responses that are possible scientific causes of the diagnosed condition
b. What are potential biological/ medical factors? These are neurological and physical mechanisms that are
possible scientific causes of the diagnosed condition
c. What are probable social/ environmental influences? These are external mechanisms that include family,
culture, stressors, etc. that are possible scientific causes of the diagnosed condition
d. What two (2) specific psychological tests would you use to clarify or confirm your diagnosis? These are
quantitative reliable and valid paper and pencil psychological tests, not typical clinical interview, medical
tests, or neuroimaging. Discuss your rationale for selecting the tests.
References
The case write-up should integrate the literature and course material. Cite at least two (2) references. Submissions
without citations and list of references will be deducted points.
Be specific in your diagnostic write-up by providing supporting evidence or justification for your conclusions.
Responses that do not clearly and sufficiently address the above sections/ questions with plausible answers,
possible scientific explanations, or omit any of the above items will be deducted points.
Instructor’s Evaluation
Each diagnostic case write-up is worth 10 points. Your diagnostic write-up will be evaluated on:
• Reasoning, Soundness, and Accuracy
• Organization, Flow, and Clarity
• Completeness, Focus, and Development
• Mechanics, Usage, and Grammar
• Structure, Format, and Style