SUMMER 2011 SESSION I
COURSE TITLE: Abnormal Psychology
COURSE NUMBER: PSYC 438.01
SECTION TIMES/DAYS: MW 4:00-7:00 pm
Instructor: Michael J. O’Sullivan, Ph.D.
COURSE DESCRIPTION/PRINCIPAL TOPICS
This course is designed for majors and minors in Psychology in order to introduce you to: (a) the
terminology, concepts, and research topics of contemporary abnormal psychology (psychopathology); (b)
the categories of behavior disorders, considering each of the major psychiatric or psychological
classifications and their differentiating characteristics; (c) the physiological, psychological, and
sociocultural factors as etiological in behavior disorders (the biopsychosocial model of behavior); (d) the
interface of abnormal psychology with theory and research findings in behavioral genetics, developmental
and social and personality psychology, social cognitive theory, and cognitive neuroscience; and (e) the
role of values and the politico-economic climate on the study/treatment of psychopathology.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this course, students should:
Understand and be able to articulate a biopsychosocial model of abnormal behavior and its treatment.
Be able to analyze and critically evaluate the biopsychosocial components of their own personality and
behavior, and of human behavior in general—normal and abnormal.
Be able to distinguish between the disorder and the person who has the disorder.
Be able to recognize and understand the impact of psychological disorders on society, and of society on
psychological disorders.
Value having compassion and concern for people with psychological disorders.
Value the importance of a scientific approach to understanding human behavior.
PREREQUISITES/RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND
Grade of C or higher in each: PSYC 251 and (PSYC 242, 244) or (PSYC 401,410, and 415).
REQUIRED TEXTS
Comer, R. J. (2011). Fundamentals of abnormal psychology (6th ed.). New York: Worth Publishers.
COURSE WORK/EXPECTATIONS
4 Exams => 3 midterms, cumulative final
Brief reading quizzes for all assigned readings
1 Paper (brief, focused on research articles)
Attendance and participation required