PSYC-286 Abnormal Psychology

Credits 3 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into ACRD-090, ACRD-091 or ACRD-092, completion of ELAP-110 with a minimum grade of 2.0, or successful completion of ACRD-080; PSYC-281
This course includes the study of abnormal behaviors as classified and described in the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. After reviewing historical perspectives, current diagnostic approaches, and classification systems, symptomatic characteristics and diagnostic criteria for many psychological disorders will be discussed. Major theoretical explanations and empirically based treatments will also be examined. Finally, we will briefly review legal and ethical concerns in the field.

Course Outcomes

Define psychological abnormality and explain the rationale behind it.
Compare and contrast historical views of abnormality with current trends.
Explain the various assessment techniques and tools that are used to evaluate and diagnose abnormal behavior.
Explain the benefits and limitations of diagnosis and classification.
List and describe the diagnostic criteria for the main categories of psychological disorders, as is outlined in the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
Explain the etiology of the disorders from the main theoretical perspectives discussed in the text.
Identify gender and demographic influences on the prevalence of disorders.
Identify the most effective treatment strategies for the disorders discussed.
Apply appropriate diagnosis and treatment to selected case examples and offer rationale for support.
Explain how the clinical and legal fields interact to influence the criminal justice system.
Summarize the main ethical principles that guide mental health professionals.