Description

This course covers the domain of cinical psychology and psychopathology as it is represented in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5, 2013). The scientific bases of contemporary theories and research of major psychological disorders will be studied. The societal implications of mental disorders will be explored. Students will be educated about the types and causes of mental disorders, their assessment, treatment plans, referrals for services, prognosis, related research in psychotherapy, and prevention. The legal, ethical, and cultural issues related to psychopathology, behavior of mental health professionals, and society will be deliberated.

Objectives

1. Define the main tasks of the clinical psychologist and explain how the contributions of this subspecialty fit into or relate to the broader field of psychology;
2. Define the criteria for what is considered abnormal versus normal and explain how these definitions fit into the notion that psychopathology exists on a continuum
3. Discuss the ethical considerations related to the practice of psychotherapy;
4. List the main diagnostic features of a variety of mental disorders (e.g., mood disorders, schizophrenia, etc.);
5. Identify the potential factors that can contribute to the instigation and persistence of mental illness for individuals across the lifespan (e.g., children, adults, and older adults.

Recommended Books & Reading Material

1. Freeman, A., Felgoise, S. H., & Davis, D. D. (2010). Clinical Psychology: Integrating Science and Practice. USA: John Wiley & Sons
2.  Blatner, A. (2010). Foundations of Psychodrama: History, Theory, and Practice (4th ed.). New York: Springer.
3. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). APA.
4. Carr, A. & McNulty, M. (2016). The handbook of adult clinical psychology. London: Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
5. Davey, G. (2015). Clinical psychology. London [U. A.]: Routledge.
6. Bennett, P. (2010). Abnormal and Clinical Psychology- An Introductory Textbook (2nd edition). Open University Press.

Project:

Every student has to submit one assignments and one seminar. The details are as followed

Assignment 1: Presentations

Students will conduct seminars/presentations on topics related to their course contents.

Assignment 2 Qualiative analysis of clinical disorders

Student will conduct qualitative (thematic) analysis on topics related to clinical disorders and submit written  report.

Assessment Criteria

Sessional: 20

Project: (Assignment 1= 10+ Assignment 2= 10)

Midterms: 30

Final exam: 50