Theoretical Framework Applicable to Levi’s Case Study

Answer

Theoretical Framework Applicable to Levi’s Case Study

The use of an appropriate theoretical framework ensures that the presenting issues of a client are well addressed. The case chosen from the three is that of Levi. Some of Levi’s salient characteristics is that he is withdrawn and emotionally disturbed. Specifically, he does not engage in social interactions and has avoided not only his friends but also family. Additionally, he is HIV positive and has been taking ARVs for the last 10 years. The intersection between the HIV status and social withdrawal has highly affected Levi’s emotional wellbeing.

The presenting problem; in this case, is that of anxiety owing to the anti-anxiety medications that Levi has been taking. Notably, the anxiety medications help him relax and even get some sleep. The anxiety possibly emanates from his withdrawn life and his view that life is slipping away. Also, his empty lifestyle that does not include family and friends is a likely cause.

The cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the chosen theoretical framework for the case study of Levi. Two key components of CBT include core beliefs and automatic thoughts (Craske, 2014). Specifically, core beliefs are the primary beliefs that people have not only about themselves but also others and the world around them (Dobson & Dobson, 2018). The primary aims of CBT is to relieve the symptoms and resolve problems while also helping the client in the acquisition of new skills and coping strategies than can lead to the modification of cognitive structures.

The selection of CBT to analyze the case is because the theory leads to the identification of negative thoughts and behaviors in Levi and hence facilitate a change in his patterns of thinking and behavior around the difficulties he faces. CBT is effective in the treatment of anxiety and depression and other mental disorders (Dobson & Dobson, 2018). In the case of Levi, this theory will ensure that he gets help within a relatively short period compared to other therapies. However, the theory may not be suitable for individuals with complex mental health needs or difficulties in learning.

CBT is effective in situations where medication alone is not adequate. For instance, although Levi has been taking anti-anxiety medications, he has not improved. Additionally, according to Dobson & Dobson (2018), CBT has the strength of re-training the thoughts and altering the behaviors of clients and making them feel better. Moreover, the short time taken to complete CBT compared to other therapies is a key strength However, the weakness is that benefiting form CBT requires individuals to be committed (Craske, 2014). Moreover, the focus of CBT is on the capacity of individuals to change themselves as opposed to addressing wider systematic problems in families.

Cultural competence is applied in CBT because it involves the acceptance of the primary cultural benefits of individuals and actually places emphasis on the existing culturally related supports and strengths. Additionally, CBT validates the client’s experiences but also makes a case for the need for environmental change (Craske, 2014). The fact that CBT is culturally responsive implies that it is culturally sensitive and hence a demonstration of cultural competence.

The implication of CBT as it related to human behavior is that it leads to a change in the behavioral patterns of individuals. Specifically, CBT will lead to the adoption of alternative thinking patterns and ways of behavior with the aim of reducing psychological distress. In the development of Levi’s case study, CBT will lead to Levi changing her patterns of viewing life as slipping away and gain confidence as well as get imparted with positive thoughts. This theoretical framework is critical for an effective case analysis and response.