Faculty First Year Seminars 197PSY13 - Stigma and Mental Illness

Despite many advances in the diagnoses and treatment of mental illness, those afflicted with mental illness remain one of the most highly stigmatized groups in society. In fact, the stigma associated with mental disorders is oftentimes as harmful as (or more harmful than) the symptoms of the actual disorders themselves. In this seminar we will examine the stigma of mental illness for individuals, children, and families. After briefly reviewing the history of mental illness and stigma, we will explore first-hand experiences of different mental disorders, examine stigma and hospitalization, consider the role of psychotropic medications, examine mental illness in the community, and recovery. Throughout the seminar, we will consider strategies for reducing stigma focusing on education, advocacy, and legislation. Students will be expected to contribute significantly to class discussions, think critically about the course readings/videos, and communicate their views in class and in brief written assignments.

Freshmen Only