Fall 2026 - PSYC 356 D100
Developmental Psychopathology (3)
Class Number: 6014
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
-
Course Times + Location:
Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
-
Instructor:
Nathan Johnson
njj2@sfu.ca
Office Hours: TBD (Zoom)
-
Prerequisites:
PSYC 201, 241 and 250.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Examines theoretical approaches, research findings, and treatment outlooks concerning problems and disorders in childhood development.
COURSE DETAILS:
Developmental psychopathology is the study of how psychological disorders begin, change, and are treated in childhood and adolescence.
The course focuses on how biological, environmental, psychological, and sociocultural factors interact to shape and influence psychopathology across development. In this course, we will consider neurodivergence, psychological disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders in the context of development.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of core concepts, theoretical models, assumptions, and principles of developmental psychopathology;
2. Identify the biological, environmental, psychological, and sociocultural risks and protective factors related to childhood psychopathology;
3. Critically evaluate and discuss empirical research, media perspectives, and clinical practices regarding the treatment, prevention, prognosis, and long-term outcomes of childhood and adolescent disorders;
4. Evaluate and interpret case vignettes of children and adolescents using developmental psychopathology concepts, and principles.
Grading
- Participation: 10%
- Mid-Term Exam: 25%
- Final Exam: 25%
- Assignments: 40%
NOTES:
WAITLIST POLICY: No late enrollment is permitted beyond Day 5 of classes.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Required textbook: Disorders of Childhood: Development and Psychopathology, 4th Edition by Robin Hornik Parritz and Michael F. Troy.
Print Book ISBN: 9780357796467; eTextbook only ISBN: 9780357796559
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
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.