PY608 Psychopathology (3 cr.)

This course examines the healthy personality, maladjustment, transient disorders, anxiety states, psychosis, mood, psychosomatic, and personality disorders. The course focuses on the description of the main criteria and associated features of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnostic groups. In addition, etiology, prognosis, prevention, and treatment of the disorders are considered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the classifications and categories of the major mental disorders, including the importance of incorporating a client’s cultural and educational background.
2. Apply the diagnostic criteria as defined by DSM to actual clinical cases.
3. Analyze clinical information and use diagnostic criteria to differentiate between mental disorders.
4. Evaluate the problems associated with diagnosing.
5. Utilize basic understanding of normal development, psychopathology, and client factors to develop a clinical treatment plan.