Construing of disorder A workshop by Nada Dimcovic and Ana Rajkovic-Tuce 7th & 8th November 2009 __________________________________________________________________ The workshop will explore alternative constructions of disorders, with an effort to understand particular DSM-IV categories of disorders from the perspective of constructivist theory and practice. The mainstream trends in the discipline were rightly criticized for dehumanizing aspects of their conceptualizations of mental disorders. However, constructivists are seen as living in two worlds; the world of constructivist theory and that of clinical and counseling practice. To ensure richer discourse with the wider community of mental health professionals, they may need to become ‘multilingual’, that is, to speak the ‘language of medical necessity and measurable outcomes.’

Some of the major categories of disorder will be introduced in terms of the DSM-IV description or ‘diagnostic criteria’. ‘Borderline personality disorder’ will then be taken to demonstrate the way is which phenomenology (as found in DSM-IV) might be ‘translated’ into PCT formulation and treatment plan.

A number of examples of people with various clinical problems will be given to the smaller groups. The task will be to develop transitive diagnosis and therapeutic plan – that is, to identify major objectives or topics they feel should be addressed in working with a particular client.

Finally, they will be presented with the case that requires assessment of suicide risk. The questions of suicide, bereavement and professional responsibility will be elaborated.