Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 College Catalog 
    
2022-2023 College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PSY 214 - Abnormal Psychology

3 Credits, 3 Contact Hours
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Overview of the theoretical models, diagnosis, disorders, and treatment approaches in the field of abnormal psychology. Includes history; models; anxiety and mood disorders; mind and body disorders; psychosis and cognitive functioning disorders; and life span disorders.

Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  
Information: Prerequisite(s) may be waived with consent of instructor before enrolling in this class.


Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the continuous nature of normal and abnormal behavior.                                                                                                                                                           
  2. Discuss the history of the field of abnormal psychology.
  3. Distinguish between the basic theoretical models in the field.
  4. Describe the diagnostic process.
  5. Identify the symptoms of psychological disorders, as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (current edition), DSM-5 as of Spring 2013.
  6. Describe the various treatment approaches for psychological disorders, including psychopharmacology.
  7. Describe the effects of genetic and biological factors on the development of psychological disorders.
  8. Demonstrate increased understanding of people experiencing psychological disorders.
  9. Identify and discuss social, legal, and cultural issues related to mental health.

Performance Objectives:
  1. History, Theoretical Models, and Practice                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
    1. Historical background and development of the field
    2. Theoretical models
      1. Psychodynamic
      2. Cognitive
      3. Behavioral
      4. Humanistic
      5. Biological and pharmacological
      6. Sociocultural
    3. Assessment and diagnosis
  2. Anxiety and Mood Disorders
    1. Anxiety disorders
    2. Mood disorders
    3. Stress
    4. Suicide
  3. Mind and Body Disorders
    1. Psychosocial factors in physical disorders
    2. Eating disorders
    3. Substance-related disorders
    4. Sexual and gender identity disorders
  4. Psychosis and Cognitive Functioning Disorders
    1. Schizophrenia
    2. Dissociative disorders
    3. Memory disorders
  5. Life-span Disorders
    1. Personality disorder
    2. Childhood disorders
    3. Disorders of aging