Abnormal Psychology

This is an introductory module to provide an overview of the field of abnormal psychology. The course discusses a variety of psychological conditions and human behaviors that are traditionally considered outside of what we see as 'normal.' We will explore the major approaches to understanding these psychological disorders described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders (DSM; the most recent version is the fifth edition [DSM-5]), their manifestations, causes, risk factors, assessments, and treatments. The course emphasizes the scientific and research aspects of abnormal psychology. That is, it focuses on the knowledge obtained by rigorous scientific research methods. At the end of this module, students should have an overall understanding of the various psychological disorders and be able to provide an account of abnormal behaviors and psychological disorders observed in daily life. It is also the goal of this course that students achieve greater understanding and appreciation for the range of human behaviors. In addition, this course provides a foundation for other more advanced courses that cover the understanding and treatment strategies for psychological disorders. The knowledge learned in this course will serve as the foundation for related fields in health sciences, including clinical psychology, psychological counseling, social work, and rehabilitation.