Time Schedule:
John Eric Stewart
BIS 422
Bothell Campus
Explores the intellectual, emotional, biological, psychological, and behavioral aspects of human functioning. Topics include maladjustment and adjustment, discomfort, disability, and adaption. Specifically addresses assessment and diagnosis; theory and strategies of intervention; ethics and standard, research methods; and training and specializations.
Class description
This course will introduce students to the field of Clinical Psychology and the research-practitioner model. Clinical Psychology is an applied science that integrates research, theory, and practice to “understand and alleviate maladjustment, disability, and discomfort, as well as to promote human adaptation, adjustment, and personal development” (APA Division 12, 2007). The course will cover research and theory of assessment, diagnosis, and intervention. This course provides a foundational introduction to cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic/existential, and some postmodern approaches to assessment and psychotherapy. We will also address ethics and standards, areas of specialization and training. 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
demonstrate critical and foundational understanding of major psychotherapy modalities, with a sophisticated grasp of at least one of these: psychodynamic; cognitive-behavioral; humanistic and postmodern approaches.
Demonstrate familiarity with the conceptualization, use, and critiques of the DSM-IV-TR, its construction, its epistemological foundations, and its role in practice and research.
Demonstrate some familiarity, self-awareness, and degree of comfort with the theory and practice of interviewing techniques and listening skills.
Demonstrate a basic familiarity with assessment tools and strategies, along with their rationales and limitations.
Apply critical, ethical thinking skills and resources in relation to psychological interventions (and other helping professions).
Understand areas of training, licensure, and specializations in mental health.
General method of instruction
Lecture, class discussion and small group work, films, interviewing assignments. Note: the course if fairly reading and writing intensive.
Recommended preparation
Introduction to Psychology extremely strongly encouraged. Abnormal Psychology will be extremely helpful but not required.
Class assignments and grading
Two exams: Essay and short answer format. Two interview and analysis reports (approximately ten pages each).
Grades will be based on the quality of engagement in small group work, interviewing, writing assignments, and exams.
