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PSYC 270 Abnormal Psychology
3 semester hour credits
Course Description:
A survey of the classification, symptoms, and etiology of psychological disorders.
This class focuses on the entire range and scope of human behavior, including
theoretical, etiological, epidemiological, and phenomenological approaches to mental
illness. It is intended that the student increases their understanding of psychopathology
in general and learn more about basic psychological disorders. The course will also
explore the aspects of social consequences and treatment options offered in the past and
at the current time.
Prerequisite:
PSYC 111 Introduction to Psychology
Course
Objectives
:
The student will be required to think objectively about research, social issues, case
studies, etc.
This is a social science course, so understanding and analysis using the scientific method
is a crucial cornerstone here.
This course will cover the entire spectrum of human behavior, showing the student the
varying forms of mental processes.
1.
Define abnormal behavior.
2.
Describe the influences that produce and maintain mental disorders.
3.
Outline the processes of clinical assessment and diagnosis.
4.
Describe the symptoms, causes, and treatments of anxiety disorders, somatic
symptom disorders, dissociative disorders, mood disorders and suicide, eating and
sleep disorders, sexual dysfunctions, gender dysphoria, substance-related and
impulse-control disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia and other
psychotic disorders, developmental disorders, and cognitive disorders.
5.
Explain the psychological and social factors that influence the development of
physical disorders, including the relationships between stress, the immune system,
and lifestyle choices.
6.
Discuss the legal and ethical issues associated with the assessment and treatment
of abnormal behavior.
Instructor:
Alice West, M.A.
Office:
Online. You may post questions in my Virtual Office in our online classroom.
Office Hours:
Use the eMail tool within the online course to communicate with the
instructor. Course eMail messages will be checked daily, Monday through Friday. If you
have a technical problem, contact the Distance Education office by calling 1-701-228-