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Abnormal Psychology PSYCH 230-5391

This course introduces the scientific study of the symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention of psychological disorders. Multiple theoretical perspectives are used to examine the biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors creating abnormality. The course examines the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) classification system, cultural and gender differences in abnormality, current research and ethical issues, and case illustrations of behavioral disorders.

Date Added to MERLOT:
October 9, 2023
Created by:
Jerome Crichton
License:
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PSYCH 101, PSYCH 122.

Pedagogical Approach

This is an asynchronous course designed for students who are self-motivated to read and study independently along with the support of an instructor. Each week and/or subject will consist of reading a chapter, reviewing videos, responding to discusson questions, engaging peers, and taking a quiz. There will also be two reflection papers during the course of the semester.

Learning Outcomes

By the conclusion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Use the major theoretical perspectives of psychology (examples: behavioral, biological, cognitive, evolutionary, sociocultural, psychodynamic) to explain the causes and treatments for abnormal behavior.

2. Recognize how symptoms, treatments, and causes of abnormality vary across differing human populations and contextual situations, thus respecting human diversity and the complexity of human functioning.

3. Critically evaluate ethical, legal, and privacy issues in abnormal psychology.

4. Analyze cases using appropriate DSM classification terminology and identify treatments for specific disorders.

5. Uncover the fallacies in common misconceptions about abnormality.

6. Critically evaluate different points of view in current controversies in the field of abnormal psychology.

7. Explain the use of research designs in the scientific study of psychopathology. 8. Define and use basic biological and psychological terminology to describe psychopathology and atypical behavior and mental processes.

Assessment

Students will be assessed with a letter grade (A, B, C, D, F) on the basis of completed assignments, quiz performance, and the quality of all written work. 

10 Regular Quizzes = 20 points each (200)

1 Midterm and 1 Final Quiz = 25 points each (50)

15 In-Class Assignments = 10 points each (150)

2 Reflection Papers = 50 points each (100)

 

Other Information

The course will use ZTC Principles of Abnormal Psychology (1st ed.). It is accessible at Merlot.org. 

Course Resources