Discussion Task: Analyzing Alex
Consider the following scenario.
Alex grew up in a violent and abusive home. His father drank to intoxication each night and neglected Alex until he turned three. At age three, his father began to physically abuse Alex regularly. Alex's mother screamed at him whenever he cried as a child, and she rarely held or tried to soothe him.
Address each of the following questions in your discussion post:
1. What types of behaviors might you possibly see from Alex during childhood? Describe the possible effects of the abuse in terms of the HPA axis. Include brain structures and neurotransmitters.
2. How might a psychologist approach work with Alex to address any maladaptive behaviors you identified?
3. How would a neuropsychological assessment be useful in this scenario?