Time Schedule:
John Eric Stewart
BIS 270
Bothell Campus
General instruction to the study and treatment of psychopathology. Covers research on and theories about definitions and "causes" of psychological problems from a variety of perspectives. Addresses some of the major classes of mental health problems, such as mood and anxiety disorders, their causes and treatment.
Class description
AUTUMN 2007 This course will familiarize students with current and historical understandings and conceptualizations of psychological disorders, including etiology, diagnostic categories and systems, treatment and/or management. Students will also become acquainted with the characteristic behaviors and experiences associated with these diagnoses. Students will become knowledgeable about the DSM-IV-TR, its systems and categories, its historical and cultural situatedness, various etiological and treatment approaches, as well as some central controversies within and surrounding the field. Students will also be introduced to a number of perspectives for critically assessing the assumptions and values of medicine/psychiatry and psychology that shape the practices and theories, in fact that basic conceptualization, of “abnormal psychology.” I hope that students will be better able to assess the costs and benefits (and whose they are) of these perspectives and practices by quarter’s end. I further aim for students to have a more sophisticated and empathetic understanding of the experiences of those people navigating severe psychological distress and the systems meant to assist them.
This course provides a general introduction to and overview of the study and treatment of psychopathology. We will cover research on and theories about definitions and “causes” of psychological problems from a variety of perspectives. You will be introduced to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV-TR), the primary diagnostic and classification system for psychologists and psychiatrists in the U.S. We will give specific attention to some of the major classes of mental health problems, such as mood and anxiety disorders, their causes and treatment. Throughout the course, you will be expected to engage in critical thinking about your own pre-existing assumptions and beliefs and about the many dilemmas and questions that characterize the field.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lecture, class discussion, films.
Recommended preparation
Introduction to Psychology extremely strongly encouraged. Biological Psychology helpful, but not necessary.
Class assignments and grading
Grades will be based on the quality of engagement of short writing assignments, a midterm and a take home final.
