Psychological & Brain Sciences 387 - Autism

This course will provide students with an overview of autism across the lifespan, through exploration of autistic narratives and empirical research. Students will learn about the principles of neurodiversity and disability justice and explore their role in the history of autism. Using an intersectional lens that includes race, gender, sexuality, and social class, students will critically evaluate how autism has been defined, diagnosed, and treated. This course will review biological and environmental factors that impact autistic people and prepare students to create a more inclusive society for autistic people through accommodation, support, and advocacy. When combined with Psych 494PI, this course will satisfy the Integrative Experience requirement for Psychology majors.

DDHS (Developmental Disabilities and Human Services) students only. PSYCH 241 & 322 or 256 Registration is only open to students in the Developmental Disabilities and Human Services (DDHS) Specialization for the first month of registration. Non-DDHS students should visit blogs.umass.edu/ddhs to request registration in this course.

Advanced IE Elective Course: When taken in combination with Psych 494PI, this course can count towards the Integrative Experience (IE) requirement for Primary Psychology majors. This course and 494PI do not need to be taken in the same semester