PSY3032 - Abnormal psychology

Leader(s): Dr Vickii Jenvey

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)
Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Evening)
Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Day)
Sunway Second semester 2009 (Day)
Singapore Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)
Peninsula Second semester 2009 (Flexible)
South Africa Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit covers all important aspects of abnormal behaviour: historical influences, theory, assessment, specific psychopathologies, treatment methods, and legal issues. Both the scientific and professional aspects of abnormal psychology are presented. Efforts will be made to give students the broadest possible view of abnormal behaviour by studying different theoretical perspectives. Compulsory attendance at weekend schools is required for all off-campus students.

Objectives

On the completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. relate their knowledge of personality, biological processes and human development to abnormal behaviour;

2. contrast historical and current major theoretical perspectives of abnormal behaviour;

3. attain insight into the way the theoretical perspective adopted by a clinician can influence the manner of explaining how a psychological disorder develops and how it is treated;

4. demonstrate familiarity with methods of assessing psychological disorders and the main systems of classifying disorders;

5. discuss the advantages and disadvantages of classifying abnormal behaviour;

6. describe the major types of psychological disorders and the major therapeutic approaches to abnormal behaviour; and

7. attain an advanced level of skill in critical evaluation of previous research and psychological report writing.

Assessment

Examination (2 hours): 55%
Laboratory research report: 30%
Laboratory content test: 15%
Hurdle requirement: 75% lab attendance

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures and one 2-hour laboratory class per week

Off-campus attendance requirements

Compulsory attendance at weekend schools is required for all off-campus students.

Prerequisites

PSY2011 or PSY2031