Introduction to Abnormal Psychology from Coursera

This course presents an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology. The course is made up of 5 modules, the first of which provides an introduction to the field through discussions of the concept of psychological abnormality, assessment and classification, and the major models in use for understanding psychological abnormality. The remaining four modules provide overviews of major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Lectures within each of these modules address symptoms and behaviors, epidemiology, causal theories, treatment interventions and multicultural findings and considerations.

The course also seeks to assist participants with becoming more adept at noticing when a family member, friend, or colleague may be experiencing psychological distress, as well as develop the comfort level required for initiating an empathic, compassionate conversation with a person of concern. Toward this goal, the last lecture of each module is dedicated to the topic “Foundations of Empathy.”

This course is not designed to assist participants with resolving their own experiences of psychopathology, nor it is intended to prepare participants to act as psychotherapists for distressed individuals in their personal lives.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Abnormal Psychology

Mood Disorders: Depression and Mania

Anxiety Disorders

Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders

Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of the different facets of abnormal psychology, making it suitable for those interested in gaining a broad understanding of the field

Taught by experienced instructor Jen D'Andrea, who has significant expertise in the field of abnormal psychology

Emphasizes empathy and compassion in interacting with individuals experiencing psychological distress, fostering a valuable soft skill

Covers a wide range of topics within abnormal psychology, providing a well-rounded foundation for further exploration

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Abnormal Psychology with these activities:

Review basic neuroscience concepts related to abnormal psychology

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Reinforce your understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying psychological functioning.

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Review your lecture notes and textbooks from previous neuroscience courses.
Attend a refresher workshop or online course on neuroscience basics.
Read scientific articles or books on the neurobiology of abnormal psychology.

Participate in a group discussion on stigma and discrimination in mental health

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Gain insights into the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions and develop strategies for promoting inclusivity.

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Join an online or in-person support group or forum dedicated to mental health awareness.
Attend a workshop or presentation on reducing stigma and discrimination in mental health.
Engage in respectful and open discussions about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues.

Gather a collection of resources on mental health support and services

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Compile a comprehensive list of resources to assist individuals in accessing the help they need.

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Research and identify reputable organizations and websites that provide mental health support.
Collect contact information for crisis hotlines, support groups, and mental health professionals.
Organize the resources into a user-friendly format, such as a spreadsheet or website.

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Practice diagnosing common abnormal psychology symptoms

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Complete practice problems to cement the understanding of psychological abnormality diagnostic criteria.

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Use online practice materials to test your knowledge of various psychological disorders.
Join a study group and practice diagnosing symptoms together.
Take practice exams and mock diagnostic assessments.

Explore online resources for coping mechanisms and treatment interventions

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Familiarize yourself with different treatment options and strategies for managing psychological distress.

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Research evidence-based interventions for different psychological disorders.
Watch video demonstrations of therapeutic techniques and strategies.
Explore online support groups and forums to connect with others and learn from their experiences.

Develop an empathy-building exercise or activity

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Enhance your ability to recognize and respond to the emotional experiences of others.

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Identify a specific scenario or situation where empathy is crucial.
Design an activity or exercise that encourages participants to put themselves in the shoes of others.
Facilitate the activity or exercise with a group of peers or colleagues.

Create a mental health self-care plan

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Develop personalized strategies for maintaining your own mental well-being.

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Identify your triggers and develop coping mechanisms.
Establish a regular routine that includes healthy sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
Identify support systems and resources that can assist you when needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Abnormal Psychology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Psychologists use their knowledge of mental illness to assess, diagnose, and treat patients. They may also provide psychotherapy, conduct research, and consult with other professionals. This course may be useful to Clinical Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Clinical Psychologists better understand the symptoms and behaviors of their patients, as well as develop effective treatment plans.

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Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists use their knowledge of mental illness to diagnose and treat patients. They may also provide psychotherapy, prescribe medication, and conduct research. This course may be useful to Psychiatrists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Psychiatrists better understand the symptoms and behaviors of their patients, as well as develop effective treatment plans.

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Counseling Psychologist

Counseling Psychologists use their knowledge of mental health and counseling techniques to help people cope with a variety of personal, social, and emotional challenges. They may work in private practice, schools, hospitals, or other settings. This course may be useful to Counseling Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Counseling Psychologists better understand the symptoms and behaviors of their clients, as well as develop effective treatment plans.

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Forensic Psychologist

Forensic Psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and the law to help solve crimes and provide expert testimony in court. They may work for law enforcement agencies, district attorneys' offices, or private practice. This course may be useful to Forensic Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Forensic Psychologists better understand the behavior of criminals and witnesses, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychologists use their knowledge of the brain and behavior to assess and treat people with brain injuries or other neurological conditions. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice. This course may be useful to Neuropsychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Neuropsychologists better understand the cognitive and behavioral challenges faced by their patients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Educational Psychologist

Educational Psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and education to help students succeed in school. They may work in public or private schools, or they may work for educational consulting firms. This course may be useful to Educational Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Educational Psychologists better understand the challenges faced by students, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Health Psychologist

Health Psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and health to help people improve their health and well-being. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice. This course may be useful to Health Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Health Psychologists better understand the challenges faced by their clients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Industrial-Organizational Psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and business to improve the workplace. They may work for corporations, government agencies, or consulting firms. This course may be useful to Industrial-Organizational Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Industrial-Organizational Psychologists better understand the challenges faced by employees, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Addiction Counselor

Addiction Counselors use their knowledge of addiction and counseling techniques to help people overcome substance abuse problems. They may work in private practice, addiction treatment centers, or other settings. This course may be useful to Addiction Counselors because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Addiction Counselors better understand the challenges faced by their clients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Developmental Psychologist

Developmental Psychologists study the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children and adolescents. They may work in academia, research institutions, or private practice. This course may be useful to Developmental Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Developmental Psychologists better understand the challenges faced by children and adolescents, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Rehabilitation Psychologist

Rehabilitation Psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and rehabilitation to help people with disabilities live full and independent lives. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice. This course may be useful to Rehabilitation Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Rehabilitation Psychologists better understand the challenges faced by their clients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Mental Health Counselor

Mental Health Counselors use their knowledge of mental health and counseling techniques to help people cope with a variety of mental health challenges. They may work in private practice, schools, hospitals, or other settings. This course may be useful to Mental Health Counselors because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Mental Health Counselors better understand the symptoms and behaviors of their clients, as well as develop effective treatment plans.

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Hospice Social Worker

Hospice Social Workers provide emotional and practical support to patients and families who are facing end-of-life issues. They may work in hospices, hospitals, or private practice. This course may be useful to Hospice Social Workers because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Hospice Social Workers better understand the challenges faced by their clients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Social Worker

Social Workers use their knowledge of social problems and human behavior to help people improve their lives. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and social service agencies. This course may be useful to Social Workers because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help Social Workers better understand the challenges faced by their clients, as well as develop effective interventions.

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School Psychologist

School Psychologists use their knowledge of mental health and education to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They may work in public or private schools, and they may provide individual or group therapy, consultation with teachers and parents, and crisis intervention. This course may be useful to School Psychologists because it provides an overview of the major domains of abnormal psychology, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, stress and trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This knowledge can help School Psychologists better understand the symptoms and behaviors of their students, as well as develop effective interventions.

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Introduction to Abnormal Psychology

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