PSY2414: Abnormal Psychology

Abstract

Course description and objectives: This is a general survey course in the area of abnormal psychology. The 1st third of the course will provide a brief overview of central issues in the field of abnormal psychology, including the history, research methods, perspectives & theoretical models, classification, assessment, & treatment. The 2nd two thirds of the course will focus on psychological disorders related to areas such as anxiety, mood, psychosis, & personality disorders. This course is designed to expose you to a broad range of information & concepts, rather than make you an expert in any specific area. By the end of class, you should be more knowledgeable about the topics of abnormal behavior & psychological disorders. Some specific course objectives include: 1. Develop skills to think critically about abnormal psychology in the real world. 2. Learn about the major psychological disorders, including presentation, onset, and prevalence 3. Understand etiology & treatment of mental illness in the context of each of the major viewpoints in psychology. 4. Gain an understanding of the impact social & cultural factors have on diagnosis & treatment of psychological disorders. 5. Prepare you for more advanced undergraduate psychology courses & later graduate courses.