Psychologists

[[file:Wiki Post 3.ppt]]Psychologists
__Task 1, Books I-IV__

As a troubled teenager growing up without his father, Telemachos has been coming to you for counseling. For months, you have been observing his actions and listening to him talk about his family and home life. Most recently, along his journey, Telemachos has been sending you letters, sharing the details of his experiences with you. As a result of all of these sessions with your patient, what can you conclude about Telemachos’ character? Can you diagnose Telemachos? In your psychological report, list Telemachos’ behaviors, beliefs, or statements and your conclusions about him.

After observing and monitoring Telemachos for several months, we have concluded upon his psychological characteristics and mental state. Telemachos suffers from mild chronic depression, likely dysthymia. He experiences frequent mood swings, as can be seen by his sudden outbursts of anger and his quick descents into sadness. Telemachos is a very sentimental individual. He has lingering attachments to a man that he has never met (his father), and objectively speaking, it is highly unlikely that after 20 years Odysseus will ever come back. This lingering attachment that Telemachos feels combined with his large, extravagant quest for his father is quite irrational and not well thought out, showing that Telemachos is not only extremely sentimental but irrational as well. Telemachos seems incapable of reminiscing upon the better times of his past, which is also indicative of depression. Despite suffering from depression, Telemachos seems to be a very optimistic and decisive person, shown by his quick action and decision making when setting off on his odyssey, so it’s not all terrible for Telemachos.

__Task 2, Books V, VI, and IX__

You have the opportunity to meet with Odysseus in the land of Phaicia between his visit with the king and his recreation with the residents. He has been away from his home for two decades, and you are certain that his time in battle and violent travel afterwards has had some effect on his overall psyche. Does he show signs of post-traumatic stress disorder? Write a transcript of your brief session with Odysseus, including questions and answers, with a brief explanation of your findings. Remember, you want Odysseus to talk about his past experiences and his reaction to them, and you hope that his answers will reveal his personality and character. [Hint: You may need to investigate post-traumatic stress disorder and provide some information/links for your classmates.]

__ Task 3, Books X-XII __

Since you are a renowned psychologist, you are in the process of writing a self-help book. You are currently creating/drafting a chapter entitled, “Fate vs. Free will: Does man control his own destiny?” Using the adventures that Odysseus and his crew experience as evidence, create/draft this chapter. You may use evidence from the second reading as well. Remember that as a counselor, you want to provide examples that explain the advice you are giving your readers. Consider creative ways to present your findings/advice (i.e. chart, outline, etc.).