Psychology 228 - Clinical Psychology

This course will expose students to many of the psychological disorders of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, such as mood, anxiety, schizophrenia spectrum, trauma-related, dissociative, eating, disruptive, and addictive disorders. Based on a review of contemporary research findings, lectures and discussion will focus on the most relevant approaches for understanding, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders. The biopsychosocial model will serve as a basis for explaining the etiology of psychological disorders. Students will read and critique empirical research articles investigating the presentation, causes, and treatment of psychological disorders and will use clinical case examples to apply course content.

Requisite: PSYC 100 or consent of the instructor. Limited to 40 Amherst college students. Fall and Spring semesters. Professor McQuade.

How to handle overenrollment: By seniority and declared psychology majors.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: This course involves three exams. Typically there will be two empirical articles to read each week. Each week students will also respond to preparation questions on an individual basis. Students will read a memoir and write a 3-5-page paper. At the end of the semester, students will complete a 5-7 page research paper.