PSY 239 Introduction to Abnormal Psychology

Recommend at least one introductory psychology course before taking this course. Introduction to Abnormal Psychology bridges the gap between mental health-related concepts touched upon in the General Psychology course and the more in-depth analysis of issues relating to emotional disturbance covered in the typical upper division class in Abnormal Psychology. Major topics to be covered will include the historical and current status of behavior disorders, introductory statistics regarding the incidence and classification of persons who are emotionally disturbed and a framework for understanding such phenomena.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Recommended: one introductory psychology course before taking this course

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Apply analytical skills to social phenomena in order to understand human behavior. Use critical thinking skills to identify the nature and proper treatment of various forms of mental disorders
2. Apply knowledge and experience to foster personal growth and better appreciate the diverse social world in which we live. Develop a deeper understanding of one's own mental life and the mental lives of others. Apply the relevant concepts to life outside the classroom .Learn and appreciation and compassion for the diversity of mental experience
3. Understand the role of individuals and institutions within the context of society. Study the effects of numerous variables on the person, including genetic and environmental factors. Teaches the various perspectives on abnormal psychology and approaches taken to studying it
4. Assess different theories and concepts, and understand the distinctions between empirical and other methods of inquiry. Teaches psychological theories and research associated with stress, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, the schizophrenias, organic mental disorders, childhood behavioral disorders, and the relationship of psychological factors to physical illness. Teaches the various perspectives on psychology and approaches taken to studying it
5. Utilize appropriate information literacy skills in written and oral communication. Teach students to read the scientific literature. Teach students to understand and articulate the value of therapy, and the nature of mental illness. Teach students to understand and articulate the difference between counseling and clinical treatment and the various types of mental health workers. Teach students to evaluate which treatment option, if any, is best for them or a potential patient. Teach students to articulate the implications of laws and programs on society and the mental health population
6. Understand the diversity of human experience and thought, individually and collectively. Teaches basic concepts of abnormal psychology, encourages students to explore their implications. Explore the ways in which humans and groups are both similar and different. Examines the ways in which humans react to genetics, the environment and its stressors
7. Apply knowledge and skills to contemporary problems and issues. Teaches how abnormal psychology and therapy work in real life. Integrates theoretical knowledge and empirical research with practical applications in the real world