Psychology 329 - Sem: First-Person Narratives

'Psychologists have typically conceptualized 'mental illness' in terms of the symptoms and diagnoses proposed by psychiatrists in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). These categories, while perhaps useful for prescribing medication, do little to help us understand the subjective experiences that are considered 'mad.' In this seminar, we analyze accounts (historical and contemporary) written by people who have experienced extreme states, intense emotions, or unusual perceptions or beliefs, to understand how these 'counter-narratives' offer new insights into psychological life.'

This course is open to Juniors and Seniors. Prereq: 8 credits in Psychology