Course Description
This course will focus on the psychological and biological processes of abnormal behavior. Students will explore the symptoms, theory, and treatment of a wide variety of psychological disorders. (3 credits)
Prerequisites
- ENG 101: English Composition 1
- ENG 102: English Composition 2
- PSY 101: Psychology (Recommended)
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:
- Explain the major psychological disorders including symptoms and treatment.
- Describe a variety of theories or approaches related to principal disorders.
- Understand the roots of abnormal behavior.
- Explain how abnormal behavior can be treated through a variety of approaches from psychotherapy to medication.
- Describe how “normal” people can experience abnormal behaviors in the course of their lives.
- Learn more about oneself and others in your world, developing empathy.
Course Activities and Grading
| Assignments | Weight |
|---|---|
Weekly Discussion Questions | 35% |
Weekly Chapter Summaries | 35% |
Course Term Paper | 30% |
Total | 100% |
Required Textbooks
Available through Charter Oak State College's Book Bundle
- Whitbourne, Susan K. (2023). Abnormal Psychology, Clinical Perspectives on Psychological Disorders. (10th Edition). McGraw Hill, New York. ISBN-13: 978-1-266-56689-9 [Looseleaf version]
Additional Resources
- Various websites, readings and library (online) sources
Course Schedule
Week | SLOs | Readings and Exercises | Assignments |
1 | 1-6 | Topics: Understanding Abnormal Behavior, Diagnosis and Treatment
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2 | 1-6 | Topics: Assessment and Theoretical Views
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3 | 1-6 | Topics: Neurodevelopmental Disorders & Schizophrenic Disorders
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4 | 1-6 | Topics: Depressive, Bi-Polar & Anxiety & Trauma Disorders
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5 | 1-6 | Topics: Dissociative, Somatic, Eating & Conduct Disorders
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6 | 1-6 | Topics: Paraphilic Disorders, Sexual Dysfunction, Gender Dysphoria, Substance Related & Addictive Disorders
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7 | 1-6 | Topics: Neurocognitive & Personality Disorders
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8 | 1-6 | Topic: Ethics and Legal Issues
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COSC Accessibility Statement
Charter Oak State College encourages students with disabilities, including non-visible disabilities such as chronic diseases, learning disabilities, head injury, attention deficit/hyperactive disorder, or psychiatric disabilities, to discuss appropriate accommodations with the Office of Accessibility Services at OAS@charteroak.edu.
COSC Policies, Course Policies, Academic Support Services and Resources
Students are responsible for knowing all Charter Oak State College (COSC) institutional policies, course-specific policies, procedures, and available academic support services and resources. Please see COSC Policies for COSC institutional policies, and see also specific policies related to this course. See COSC Resources for information regarding available academic support services and resources.