Spring 2024 - PSYC 241 OL01
Introduction to Psychological Disorders and Neurodiversity (3)
Class Number: 1892
Delivery Method: Online
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Online
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Exam Times + Location:
Apr 17, 2024
Wed, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Adam Blanchard
ajb8@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
PSYC 102.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Introduces students to the area of abnormal psychology. Topics include the definition and classification of pathological behaviour, factors involved in the development of pathology, and evaluation of therapy outcome.
COURSE DETAILS:
This course provides an introduction to psychopathology: the scientific study of mental disorders. The course begins with a brief overview of the history of abnormal psychology before reviewing the prominent theoretical perspectives and how they conceptualize psychological disorders. The course then provides an overview of classification and diagnostic systems used in the field, then leading assessment techniques relevant to clinical psychology, followed by surveying the nature, assessment, epidemiology, etiology, and treatment of a series of specific psychological disorders. A strong emphasis is placed on understanding the role of scientific reasoning and research methodology in understanding psychopathology, as well as the application of research findings and scientific principles to the professional practice of psychology. Specific topics that will be covered include the major theoretical perspectives, classification and diagnosis anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, eating disorders, substance related disorders, personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and disorders of childhood and adolescence.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
The main goals of the course are to introduce students to the clinical practice of psychology and to acquaint students with the key features of a number of psychological disorders. The course generally focuses on those mental disorders that are most likely to affect the public. An underlying theme throughout the course will be the importance of applying scientific principles and clinical knowledge to the assessment and treatment of mental disorders.
Grading
- Writing Assignments: 30%
- Midterm #1: 20%
- Midterm #2: 25%
- Final Exam: 25%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Dozois. (2023). Perspectives in Psychopathology (7th ed.). Pearson.
ISBN: 9780136774143
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.