Psychological Science: Psychopathology

Describing and defining abnormal behavior; models of etiology; research evidence for biological and social models; methods of intervention and prevention. Prerequisite: PSYS 1400.

Prereqs enforced by the system: PSYS 1400; CNHS students only during week of registration; Colocated with PSYS 2500 A; Total combined enrollment = 180 PACE students by permission and override.

This course is an introduction to the field of psychopathology (i.e., the study of mental health problems) from a clinical psychological science perspective. After placing mental health problems within historical context, the course considers contemporary definitions of “mental disorder” and the current DSM-5 classification system and alternative approaches. Students will develop an understanding of the basic assumptions behind alternative theoretical models that attempt to explain mental health problems. This course provides up-to-date descriptive information about the symptoms, prevalence, risk factors, and course for different adult psychological disorders, as well as evidence-based treatment approaches. Emphasis will be placed on the complex, multifaceted nature of mental health problems, involving biological, behavioral, cognitive, and social components.

Students attend lectures, participate in class discussions, answer iClicker questions during class, and complete assignments.

Grades are based on non-cumulative exams, in-class iClicker questions, e-text chapter quizzes, and a case study writing assignment. Extra credit options are available.