Overview

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 abnormal behaviour.  The course then provides an overview of classification and diagnostic systems used in the field, then leading assessment techniques relevant to abnormal 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.  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

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

REQUIRED READING NOTES: