PSY 264 - Abnormal Psychology

Offered WI
Lecture- 3
3 credit hrs/3 contact hrs
Prerequisite: PSY 161 - Introduction to Psychology with “C” or better (2.0 out of a 4.0 scale)
Description and analysis of the prevalence, symptoms, causes, and social significance of a variety of psychological disorders. Focus on diagnostic and causal issues, but also seeks to develop empathic understanding of persons suffering from disorders. Addresses individual and cultural variations in the expression of psychological distress. Examines research methods and controversial issues in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Articulate and defend criteria that distinguishes normal from abnormal behavior.
Describe the major symptoms, probable causes, and proposed treatments associated with selected psychological disorders.
Demonstrate empathic understanding of persons who suffer from disorders via reflective responses to autobiographical writings.
Describe significant historical events in the understanding and treatment of persons with disorders.
Evaluate pro and con arguments for controversial issues in abnormal psychology (Taking Sides).
Locate and use primary research sources in an APA style research paper designed to answer one or more empirical questions about psychological disorders.
Exhibit professional behavior in attendance, assignment completion, class conduct, teamwork and constructive peer feedback.