PSYCHOLOGY 2220:  Abnormal Psychology

In this course we will evaluate conceptions of abnormal behaviour including the definitions and classifications of abnormal behavior.  You will be able to distinguish between various conceptions of normality and defend one as being most appropriate.  We will examine several models used to explain maladaptive behaviours.  You will be able to describe several anxiety related disorders and explain several theories as to their cause and cure.  You will be able to describe dissociative and somatoform disorders and explain their cause and cure.  Likewise you will be able to describe a host of symptoms defining the affective disorders as well as schizophrenia and explain several theories that explain the development of these behaviours.  For schizophrenia, in particular,  you will be able to identify medical treatments and describe their effects on the behaviours involved.  In addition to discussing the symptoms and causes of these behaviours we will consider some common forms of therapeutic intervention.  You will be able to evaluate these interventions based on both a theoretical and empirical standpoint.