Issues related to psychopathology will be explored, with an emphasis on methodological problems and the causes of psychopathological conditions. The DSM classification system, which has become standard in North America and in many other parts of the world, will be examined critically, and other more theoretically coherent nosologies will be studied. Diagnostic categories will be examined from the point of view of three major theoretical approaches: psychodynamic, biological, and cognitive. Through required readings and a research paper, the student will become familiar with contemporary work in the field and will learn to read professional articles in a critical way. Emphasis in the course will be on the understanding and not simply the description of psychopathological states and their multiple complex determinants. Every psychological disorder has its specific content for the person suffering from it.

Satisfies "Applied Psychology" core course requirement for Psychological Science majors.

We begin with an introduction to the principal mental disorders in adult humans and the different research approaches to psychological disorders.

We will then adopt an historical perspective to explore the earliest views of abnormal behavior. We will consider the factors helping clinicians perform an appropriate clinical assessment and diagnosis. After reviewing the role of stress in initiating and precipitating physical and mental health, the course will cover the leading categories of mental disorders, which will be consistently presented with a focus on three key aspects: (1) the clinical picture; (2) factors involved in the development of the disorder; and (3) treatment approaches. All psychopathologies will be understood from a practical and lived experience viewpoint rather than the medical model of treatment.

At times this semester we will be discussing mental health issues that may be disturbing to some students. If you are aware of particular course material that may be traumatizing to you, I’d be happy to discuss any concerns you may have with it before it comes up in class. Likewise, if you ever wish to discuss your personal reactions to such material with the class or with me afterwards or if you ever feel the need to step outside during one of these discussions, either for a short time or for the rest of the class session, you may always do so without academic penalty. You will, however, be responsible for any material you miss. If you do leave the room for a significant time, please make arrangements to  see me individually to discuss the situation.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Explain the categories and descriptions of the most common mental disorders. 
• Provide an explanation of the different theoretical models explaining causation of mental illnesses.
• Identify the contribution of biological, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and sociocultural factors within various psychopathologies. 
• Articulate the clinical presentation of the main psychiatric pathologies, using DSM 5 criteria
• To apply critical reasoning skills to the understanding of mental health issues, including hypothetical clinical cases. 
• Accurately interpret, summarize and present information from primary sources.  
• Demonstrate awareness of the ethical issues associated with clinical research and practice.
• Generate a case presentation of a mental illness listing the main features and presentations.
• Explain the complexity and importance of research into the causes and treatment of psychological disorders and to gain practical skills in choosing the best evidence-based treatments.

Attendance and participation, although not mandatory, are essential to earn a good grade for this course. Students are strongly invited to attend every class meeting, and to come to class prepared and ready to participate in discussions. 

You cannot make-up a major exam (midterm or final) without the permission of the Dean’s Office. The Dean’s Office will grant such permission only when the absence was caused by a serious impediment, such as a documented illness, hospitalization or death in the immediate family (in which you must attend the funeral) or other situations of similar gravity. Absences due to other meaningful conflicts, such as job interviews, family celebrations, travel difficulties, student misunderstandings or personal convenience, will not be excused. Students who will be absent from a major exam must notify the Dean’s Office prior to that exam. Absences from class due to the observance of a religious holiday will normally be excused. Individual students who will have to miss class to observe a religious holiday should notify the instructor by the end of the Add/Drop period to make prior arrangements for making up any work that will be missed.