Description
This course provides an introduction to the psychological, biological, and socio-cultural factors involved in the development, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders. It includes a review of the historical understanding of abnormal behavior and the development of modern diagnostic systems. It includes discussion of psychological research and practice as it relates to mental health and psychological functioning, as well as legal and ethical issues.
Upon completion, students will be able to: Discuss the historical antecedents to modern understandings of abnormal behavior; Identify and describe the major classes and characteristics of psychological disorders as presented in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM); Describe the factors and theoretical perspectives related to the development and maintenance of different types of abnormal behavior; List the primary treatments for psychological disorders and discuss their effectiveness; Discuss the current research and met