PSY 220 Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology (SS)

The course assesses both past and present models of psychological abnormality including the current version of the diagnostic system. Other topics addressed include: problems of anxiety, mood, mind and body, social impact, psychosis, and personality. Specifically, this course serves as an introduction to abnormal psychology, with particular applicability to theories of personality and as a foundation to subsequent coursework in counseling and psychology. The areas addressed are broad, theoretical- and research-based, and of relevance in conceptualizing issues of both nature and extent of abnormal behavior, and the means by which prevention and intervention occurs.

Credits

5

Prerequisite

ENG 102, PSY 201, PSY 202, PSY 240 or PSY 311, PSY 209 or PSY 312, or their equivalents

Outcomes

1. This course will prepare students to:
2. Judge the applicability of classification and diagnostic systems, including the application of assessment methods
3. Contrast research findings relative to the cause of abnormal behavior, its treatment approaches and their efficacy
4. Contrast treatment approaches with preventative approaches
5. Contrast historical perspectives with current interpretations
6. Discuss a classification system that depicts disorders of childhood and adolescence, schizophrenia, anxiety and mood disorders, somatoform and dissociative disorders, and personality disorders
7. Evaluate the conceptualization of abnormal behavior as a maladaptive reaction to stress
8. Outline the history, interpretations, and treatments of abnormal behavior