Abnormal Psychology
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a detailed examination of the definition, causes, consequences, and possible treatments of abnormal behavior. We will discuss what makes behaviors "abnormal" and how this term is culturally and historically determined. The following objectives are specific examples of the kinds of questions and concepts you should be prepared to discuss in this course via class lectures and discussions, reading materials, and your course exams:
- Develop an understanding of definitions, explanations, and models used to describe abnormal behavior.
- Understand historical perspectives, early viewpoints, and contemporary trends in the field of abnormal psychology.
- Develop a clear understanding of how abnormal behaviors develop.
- Understand basic assessment and classification of abnormal behavior and different methodologies used.
- Understand the basic disorders and be able to distinguish between them.
- Develop a basic understanding of treatments used for each major type of disorder.