This weeks discussion is on the Analysis of an Assessment Tool for Dissociative Disorder

Assessing and determining a mental health diagnosis can be difficult because many of the disorders have similar presenting symptoms. In addition, a client may not outwardly present symptoms, therefore, the only way to detect them involves using a scale. Finding a reliable and valid scale that determines whether an individual meets the diagnostic criteria can be very useful.

For this Discussion: Read the DSM-5 diagnosis of dissociative disorder. Then review the Dissociative Disorder Scale (Bernstein & Putnam, 1986). You are not required to fill out the form.

Post by Tuesday: The Dissociative Experiences Scale (Bernstein & Putnam, 1986) is a reliable and valid scale that is widely used in diagnosing dissociative disorders. Analyze and discuss the questions on this scale in the following areas:

1)       Do the questions appear to be consistent with a DSM-5 diagnosis of dissociative disorder? Why or why not?

2)       Are there any questions that may not be culturally sensitive? Why or why not?

3)       As a social worker working with a client, when would you decide it is necessary to use this scale?

4)       Based on the DSM-5 criteria, are there questions you would add to this scale?

Bernstein E.M., & Putnam, F. W. (1986). Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) [Measurement instrument]. Retrieved from http://serene.me.uk/tests/des.pdf

Support your post with specific references to the resources.

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