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PSY 223 Abnormal Psychology

This course provides an introduction to the causes, characteristics, and treatments of various categories of abnormal behavior. The diversity of factors surrounding maladaptive behavior including: historical views, classification or abnormal disorders, physical and psychological symptoms, and available treatments are examined.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisites: PSY 121.

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

PSY 223 Abnormal Psychology

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Georgetown
  • Stanton
  • Wilmington

Effective Date

202551

Prerequisites

Prerequisites: PSY 121.

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the causes, characteristics, and treatments of various categories of abnormal behavior. The diversity of factors surrounding maladaptive behavior including: historical views, classification or abnormal disorders, physical and psychological symptoms, and available treatments are examined.

Additional Materials

NA

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Compare the different historical views of abnormal behavior. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5)
  2. Analyze the evolution of accepted definitions of abnormal psychology and behavior. (CCC 1, 2, 5)
  3. Explain research methods used to study abnormal behavior. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6)
  4. Explain the various models of maladaptive behavior, their associated etiologies, treatments, and causes according to theoretical perspectives and current research. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
  5. Assess mental disorders through the classification and assessment system according to the the most up-to-date version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
  6. Compare appropriate treatment modalities for various types of abnormal behaviors. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5)
  7. Assess the function of community-based treatment modalities and the role of intervention programs. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Compare the different historical views of abnormal behavior.
    1. Identify differing historical views of the causes of abnormal behavior.
    2. Explain how the various historical views of abnormal behavior lead to treatment approaches.
    3. Outline the treatment of abnormal behavior throughout history from ancient civilization to present.
    4. Explain the current approaches and trends in the treatment of abnormal behavior.
  2. Analyze the evolution of accepted definitions of abnormal psychology and behavior.
    1. Define abnormal psychology.
    2. Identify the definition and classification of abnormal behaviors as used in the most recent version of the DSM.
    3. Explain the concept of stigma and identify related issues (e.g. effect, labeling, evolution, etc.).
    4. Identify the major definitions of abnormal behavior, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural views and how they have changed over time.
  3. Explain research methods used to study abnormal behavior.
    1. Describe the essential elements of research methods used to study abnormal behavior.
    2. Identify the ethical implications involved in researching abnormal behavior.
  4. Explain the various models of maladaptive behavior, their associated etiologies, treatments, and causes according to theoretical perspectives and current research.
    1. Explain why theoretical models are important in the etiology and treatment of abnormal behavior.
    2. Interpret the main tenets of the various theoretical models, including the psychoanalytic, humanistic, sociocultural, behavioral, cognitive, and biological approaches.
    3. Identify how each approach addresses the treatment of abnormal behavior and describe the significance of incorporating cultural and ethnic considerations in accurate diagnostic protocols.
    4. Distinguish among the theoretical perspectives, and explain how each perspective defines the causes of maladaptive behavior.
    5. Summarize the basic findings of current research about abnormal behavior.
  5. Assess mental disorders through the classification and assessment system according to the most up-to-date version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
    1. Explain the general purpose, organization, and use of the DSM in current psychological practice.
    2. Use the concept of diagnostic criteria to appropriately respond to specific situations.
    3. Identify other forms of assessment: testing, behavioral assessment, mental status exams, and biologically based methods.
  6. Compare appropriate treatment modalities for various types of abnormal behavior.
    1. Define the types of treatment modalities.
    2. Identify the type of treatment modality most often used with various types of abnormal behavior.
    3. Compare and contrast the major interventions used by each treatment modality.
  7. Assess the function of community-based treatment modalities and the role of intervention programs.
    1. Describe the function of community-based treatment modalities.
    2. Characterize the role of intervention programs, and identify when each might be used in the treatment of abnormal behavior.
    3. Summarize relevant research findings as to the effectiveness of various intervention programs for the treatment of the abnormal behaviors.




Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative Assessments

  • Exams, (3-5) (Equally Weighted)

60%

  • Final Course Project

15%

Formative Assessments

  • The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to:
  • quizzes
  • discussions
  • homework
  • in-class assignments

25%

TOTAL

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.

Academic Integrity

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Academics/Academic-Integrity

Attendance

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Search?q=attendance

Cell phone/Electronic Device

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Student-Policy/Cell-Phone-and-Electronic-Device-Policy

Tuition Adjustment Policy

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Financial/Tuition-Fee-Adjustment-Policy-Course-or-Semester-Withdrawal