After studying Module 2: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

It is very important for all mental health professionals to take very detailed and thorough historical information from their patients. This information should include an adequate social history, complete medical history, and a full mental status examination with a probable treatment plan.

• Describe three reasons it is important to gather detailed and extensive information from any patient before you counsel him/her or make medication suggestions. Use evidence-based research to support your position.

• Define malingering. Discuss two ways to differentiate between malingering and a DSM5 diagnosis. Use evidence-based research to support your position.

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

• All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.