PSY 212: Psychological Disorders

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Prerequisite: PSY 101 or PSY 101H.
Strongly Recommended: ENGL 101.
District General Education: D2. Behavioral Science
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

This course introduces the scientific study of psychopathology and atypical behaviors, broadly defined. Students investigate abnormal behavior from a variety of perspectives including biological, psychological, and sociocultural approaches. An integrative survey of theory and research in abnormal behavior, and intervention and prevention strategies for psychological disorders are also introduced. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Define and use basic biological and psychological terminology to describe psychopathology and atypical behavior and mental processes.
  • Compare and contrast the various theoretical perspectives on etiology and implications for treatment of various psychological disorders.
  • Summarize the major disorder classifications and give concrete examples using appropriate diagnostic terminology.
  • Explain specific research methods and the ethical principles for the study and treatment of psychopathology.

Major Course Content

  1. Psychopathology and Mental Disorders: Historical, Cultural, Social, Scientific, and Ethical Considerations
  2. Issues in classification and diagnosis
    1. DSM-5
  3. Introduction to Clinical Assessment Procedures
  4. Research Methodology in Psychopathology
    1. Descriptive, epidemiological, experimental and single-subject research designs
  5. Theories and Paradigms in Psychopathology
    1. Biological paradigm
    2. Psychodynamic paradigm
    3. Humanistic and existential paradigm
    4. Behavioral/learning paradigm
    5. Cognitive paradigm
  6. Psychological Disorders (characteristics, etiology, and treatment):
  1. Anxiety disorders
  2. Somatoform and Dissociative Disorders
  3. Mood Disorders
  4. Schizophrenia
  5. Substance-related Disorders
  6. Personality Disorders
  7. Sexual Dysfunctions and Gender Identity Disorders
  8. Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence
  9. Eating Disorders

7. Outcomes and Issues of Psychological Intervention

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

DSM 5 (American Psychological Association) Psychology Today Magazine

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Prepare multiple two to three page written case reviews in APA format.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Review supplemental material identified in class. Study for exams and quizzes. Prepare written case reviews. Evaluate "client" DVDs. Read required materials.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture

IGETC Area 4: Social and Behavioral Sciences

4I. Psychology