20809237Abnormal Psychology
Course Information
Description
The course addresses the foundations of abnormal psychology and psychological disorders, including their characteristics, possible causes, assessments, diagnostic processes, and treatments. The course includes examination of major historical and theoretical perspectives, research, sociocultural considerations, and elements of psychological wellness.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies
  1. Summarize the foundations of abnormal psychology
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Summarize the contributions of influential individuals as they relate to abnormal psychology
    Compare and contrast major theoretical perspectives in abnormal psychology
    Analyze interpretations of abnormality throughout history
    Identify current criteria for abnormality as it pertains to mental health

  2. Explain research methods as they apply to the field of abnormal psychology
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Identify methods in scientific research
    Describe how methods of scientific research are applied
    Compare and contrast the strategies for scientific research
    Explore current academic research
    Characterize credible research

  3. Differentiate the characteristics of psychological disorders
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Classify disorders by their symptoms
    Describe symptoms of various disorders
    Identify the criteria of various disorders
    Interpret varying presentations of a disorder

  4. Explore methods used in assessing mental health
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Explain the purpose of the assessment process
    Explore the importance of cultural competence in assessment
    Explore assessment methods in the diagnostic process

  5. Examine possible causes of psychological disorders
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Explain the common biological factors that contribute to the development of specific disorders
    Explain the common social factors that contribute to the development of specific disorders
    Explain the common psychological factors that contribute to the development of specific disorders
    Identify the value of using a biopsychosocial approach

  6. Identify social considerations in mental health
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Determine potential ethical concerns in mental health care
    Identify stigma(s) related to mental health
    Examine potential occupation related ethical concerns
    Examine legal issues in a mental health context
    Explore history of ethics in mental health care
    Examine social misconceptions associated with mental health

  7. Investigate elements of psychological wellness
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Examine aspects of positive psychology
    Compare adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies
    Examine protective factors related to resiliency
    Identify biopsychosocial influences on wellness

  8. Investigate mental health resources
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Identify barriers to obtaining mental health services
    Examine a range of mental health resources
    Determine availability of local mental health resources
    Research points of access for mental health support

  9. Analyze various treatments for psychological disorders
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    Examine various treatment modalities
    Identify common factors in effective treatment
    Explore the importance of cultural competence in treatment
    Evaluate strategies for building therapeutic rapport
    Examine treatment methods for specific psychological disorders