PSY 239 Mental Health and Psychological Disorders

Mental Health and Psychological Disorders bridges the gap between mental health-related concepts touched upon in the Introductory Psychology course and the more in-depth analysis of issues and case studies covered in upper division classes in Mental Health and Psychological Disorders. Major topics to be covered will include the historical and current status of psychological disorders, the incidence and classification of psychological disorders and a framework for understanding such phenomena.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Recommended prerequisite: one introductory psychology course

General Education Requirements

Social Science

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Recognize that there is a diversity of mental experiences and human behaviors
2. Apply knowledge and analytical skills to identify the nature and various forms of psychological disorders and their treatment
3. Recognize that societal context, as well as genetic, environmental, and stress factors, impact mental health
4. Integrate theoretical knowledge and empirical research with practical applications in the real world to study and evaluate psychological phenomena such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, health and stress issues, eating disorders, sleep-wake disorders, mood disorders, depression, suicide, schizophrenia, ADHD, Autism, neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer’s disease), substance-related and addictive disorders
5. Apply major theories, basic concepts, and research related to mental health and psychological disorders to contemporary problems and issues
6. Differentiate between counseling and clinical treatment, as well as the various types of mental health workers