We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
David Kays
A study of abnormal human behaviors within the diversity of human behavior. Using a Biopsychosocial framework and the DSM-5, the categories of abnormal behavior are explored with explicit consideration to cultural and biological diversity. Students who successfully complete the course will demonstrate their understanding of how physical, psychological, and social factors influence human behavior; the techniques used to identify psychological disorders; and the practical applications of treatment for abnormal behavior.
Read more
A study of abnormal human behaviors within the diversity of human behavior. Using a Biopsychosocial framework and the DSM-5, the categories of abnormal behavior are explored with explicit consideration to cultural and biological diversity. Students who successfully complete the course will demonstrate their understanding of how physical, psychological, and social factors influence human behavior; the techniques used to identify psychological disorders; and the practical applications of treatment for abnormal behavior.
Read more
A study of abnormal human behaviors within the diversity of human behavior. Using a Biopsychosocial framework and the DSM-5, the categories of abnormal behavior are explored with explicit consideration to cultural and biological diversity. Students who successfully complete the course will demonstrate their understanding of how physical, psychological, and social factors influence human behavior; the techniques used to identify psychological disorders; and the practical applications of treatment for abnormal behavior.
What you'll learn
1. Evaluate abnormal behavior from the diversity of normal human behavior.
2. Apply DSM diagnostic criteria to identify and differentiate between various psychological disorders.
3. Evaluate various influences and causes of psychological disorders.
4. Assess and demonstrate various theoretical models for conceptualizing disorders and how they influence treatment.
5. Relate knowledge of psychological disorders with current or future occupational needs and practices.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/s8ajoe/abnormal
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Evaluates abnormal behaviors from normal human behavior
Uses DSM diagnostic criteria to identify and differentiate psychological disorders
Evaluates various factors that influence psychological disorders
Assesses and demonstrates models for understanding and treating disorders
Relates knowledge of psychological disorders with professional practices
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Comprehensive abnormal psychology for professionals
According to learners, this 'Abnormal Psychology' course is a comprehensive and rigorously academic deep dive into the field, particularly beneficial for aspiring professionals and those in mental health fields. Students consistently highlight its thorough use of the DSM-5 and biopsychosocial framework, alongside valuable real-world examples and case studies. While many praise the instructor's expertise and passion, a few found the pace to be quite fast and the lectures could benefit from more engaging delivery methods or visual aids, especially for beginners. The course effectively relates knowledge to current or future occupational needs, though some suggest certain readings might need updating.
Better suited for learners with some prior psychological background.
"The course is okay, but it assumes a lot of prior knowledge. As a beginner, I struggled with some of the more complex theories..."
"If you're a self-starter and have a good grasp of basic psychology, you'll be fine, but otherwise, be prepared to put in extra hours."
"I'm taking this to prepare for my master's, and it's been fantastic, really solidifying my understanding for advanced studies."
Instructor's expertise and passion were frequently highlighted.
"The instructor's passion for the subject shone through."
"The instructor's expertise is evident."
"I liked how it tied into real-world applications, which speaks to effective instruction."
Highly relevant for occupational needs and future professional practice.
"I especially appreciated the focus on cultural diversity and how it impacts diagnoses. Highly recommended for anyone in mental health."
"I found the discussions on current occupational needs incredibly valuable for my career planning. A must-take for psychology students."
"This course exceeded my expectations and will be invaluable in my future practice."
Offers a detailed exploration using DSM-5 and biopsychosocial models.
"This course provided a deep dive into abnormal psychology, using the DSM-5 thoroughly. The biopsychosocial framework was well-integrated."
"Excellent and comprehensive! The content aligns perfectly with the learning objectives, particularly the application of DSM criteria."
"The depth of coverage for each disorder was impressive, and the consistent use of the biopsychosocial model provided a holistic understanding."
Some learners found the pace fast and delivery methods could be more engaging.
"Some parts felt a bit rushed, especially the treatment section."
"I found the pace quite fast. While the content is relevant, I felt overwhelmed at times."
"The course is very dense, and the lectures are just recordings of someone reading slides. No real interaction or engaging activities."
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 Abnormal Psychology with these
activities:
Review of 'Abnormal Psychology' by Barlow and Durand
Show steps
Supplement course material with a comprehensive textbook, deepening understanding of abnormal psychology and its theoretical foundations.
View
Psychopathology
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read assigned chapters from 'Abnormal Psychology' by Barlow and Durand.
-
Summarize key concepts and theories discussed in the text.
-
Relate the textbook material to course lectures and discussions.
Psychological Assessment Techniques
Show steps
Sharpen assessment skills through repetitive practice, improving accuracy and confidence in identifying and assessing abnormal behaviors.
Show steps
-
Practice conducting structured clinical interviews.
-
Complete mock psychological testing simulations.
-
Analyze and interpret psychological test results.
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria Review
Show steps
Enhance understanding of the diagnostic criteria used in clinical practice, ensuring accurate identification of psychological disorders.
Show steps
-
Review the DSM-5 criteria for various psychological disorders.
-
Complete online tutorials or exercises on DSM-5 diagnosis.
-
Simulate diagnostic interviews using DSM-5 criteria.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend a Conference on Abnormal Psychology
Show steps
Connect with professionals and stay updated on current research and advancements in the field of abnormal psychology.
Show steps
-
Identify relevant conferences or workshops.
-
Attend presentations and workshops on topics of interest.
-
Network with researchers, clinicians, and other professionals.
Review of 'The Handbook of Psychopathology' by Widiger and Costa
Show steps
Expand knowledge base by delving into a comprehensive reference, gaining insights into the latest research and advancements in psychopathology.
View
Abnormal Psychology (8th Edition)
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read assigned chapters from 'The Handbook of Psychopathology' by Widiger and Costa.
-
Identify and summarize key theoretical perspectives and findings.
-
Discuss the implications of the research for understanding and treating psychological disorders.
Case Study Analysis
Show steps
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by analyzing real-world cases of abnormal behavior.
Show steps
-
Identify a real-world case study that aligns with the course material.
-
Analyze the case study using the Biopsychosocial framework and DSM-5 criteria.
-
Develop a differential diagnosis and treatment plan based on your analysis.
-
Present your findings in a written report or oral presentation.
Abnormal Behavior Case Studies Database
Show steps
Consolidate and organize knowledge by compiling a database of real-world case studies, enhancing understanding of diverse presentations and complexities of abnormal behavior.
Show steps
-
Collect case studies from various sources (e.g., journals, clinical databases).
-
Summarize and categorize the case studies based on DSM-5 criteria.
-
Organize the database for easy access and retrieval.
Treatment Plan Development
Show steps
Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios by developing personalized treatment plans for specific psychological disorders.
Show steps
-
Choose a psychological disorder and case scenario.
-
Develop a treatment plan based on current evidence-based practices.
-
Create a presentation or written report outlining the treatment plan rationale and interventions.
Review of 'Abnormal Psychology' by Barlow and Durand
Show steps
Supplement course material with a comprehensive textbook, deepening understanding of abnormal psychology and its theoretical foundations.
View
Psychopathology
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read assigned chapters from 'Abnormal Psychology' by Barlow and Durand.
- Summarize key concepts and theories discussed in the text.
- Relate the textbook material to course lectures and discussions.
Psychological Assessment Techniques
Show steps
Sharpen assessment skills through repetitive practice, improving accuracy and confidence in identifying and assessing abnormal behaviors.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Practice conducting structured clinical interviews.
- Complete mock psychological testing simulations.
- Analyze and interpret psychological test results.
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria Review
Show steps
Enhance understanding of the diagnostic criteria used in clinical practice, ensuring accurate identification of psychological disorders.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the DSM-5 criteria for various psychological disorders.
- Complete online tutorials or exercises on DSM-5 diagnosis.
- Simulate diagnostic interviews using DSM-5 criteria.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend a Conference on Abnormal Psychology
Show steps
Connect with professionals and stay updated on current research and advancements in the field of abnormal psychology.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant conferences or workshops.
- Attend presentations and workshops on topics of interest.
- Network with researchers, clinicians, and other professionals.
Review of 'The Handbook of Psychopathology' by Widiger and Costa
Show steps
Expand knowledge base by delving into a comprehensive reference, gaining insights into the latest research and advancements in psychopathology.
View
Abnormal Psychology (8th Edition)
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read assigned chapters from 'The Handbook of Psychopathology' by Widiger and Costa.
- Identify and summarize key theoretical perspectives and findings.
- Discuss the implications of the research for understanding and treating psychological disorders.
Case Study Analysis
Show steps
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by analyzing real-world cases of abnormal behavior.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a real-world case study that aligns with the course material.
- Analyze the case study using the Biopsychosocial framework and DSM-5 criteria.
- Develop a differential diagnosis and treatment plan based on your analysis.
- Present your findings in a written report or oral presentation.
Abnormal Behavior Case Studies Database
Show steps
Consolidate and organize knowledge by compiling a database of real-world case studies, enhancing understanding of diverse presentations and complexities of abnormal behavior.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect case studies from various sources (e.g., journals, clinical databases).
- Summarize and categorize the case studies based on DSM-5 criteria.
- Organize the database for easy access and retrieval.
Treatment Plan Development
Show steps
Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios by developing personalized treatment plans for specific psychological disorders.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a psychological disorder and case scenario.
- Develop a treatment plan based on current evidence-based practices.
- Create a presentation or written report outlining the treatment plan rationale and interventions.
Career center
Learners who complete Abnormal Psychology will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Mental Health Counselor
Mental Health Counselor
Based on your interest in Abnormal Psychology, you may be interested in becoming a Mental Health Counselor. Mental Health Counselors help people with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practice. To succeed in this role, you will diagnose and treat mental health conditions, and develop treatment plans. The knowledge you gain in Abnormal Psychology will be essential for your success in this role.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologist
Your interest in Abnormal Psychology aligns well with a career as a Forensic Psychologist. Forensic Psychologists apply psychological principles to legal issues and work in a variety of settings, including courts, prisons, and law enforcement agencies. They evaluate and treat criminals, provide expert testimony, and consult on legal cases. This course will help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role.
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist
As a Psychiatrist, you will diagnose and treat mental health conditions using psychotherapy and medication. Psychiatrists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The focus on abnormal behavior and the biopsychosocial framework in Abnormal Psychology will provide you with a strong foundation for your work as a Psychiatrist.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Clinical Psychologist. This course will help you understand the different types of mental health disorders, their causes, and how to treat them.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people cope with mental health issues and other life challenges. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and social service agencies. Abnormal Psychology will help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Social Worker. You'll learn about the different types of mental health disorders, their causes, and how to treat them.
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapists provide therapy to individuals, families, and groups. They help people with a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Psychotherapist. This course will help you understand the different types of mental health disorders, their causes, and how to treat them.
Addiction Counselor
Addiction Counselor
Addiction Counselors help people overcome addiction to drugs and alcohol. They work in a variety of settings, including treatment centers, hospitals, and private practice. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as an Addiction Counselor. This course will help you understand the different types of addiction, their causes, and how to treat them.
Developmental Psychologist
Developmental Psychologist
Developmental Psychologists study human development across the lifespan. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, and schools. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Developmental Psychologist. This course will help you understand the different stages of human development, their challenges, and how to support healthy development.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities to participate in meaningful activities. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as an Occupational Therapist. This course will help you understand the different types of disabilities, their causes, and how to help people overcome them.
Research Psychologist
Research Psychologist
Research Psychologists conduct research on the human mind and behavior. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, government agencies, and private companies. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Research Psychologist. This course will help you understand the different research methods used in psychology, how to design and conduct research studies, and how to interpret and disseminate research findings.
School Psychologist
School Psychologist
School Psychologists provide mental health services to students in schools. They work with students with a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a School Psychologist. This course will help you understand the different types of mental health disorders that children and adolescents experience, their causes, and how to treat them.
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teachers work with students with disabilities in schools. They develop and implement lesson plans, provide instruction, and assess student progress. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Special Education Teacher. This course will help you understand the different types of disabilities, their causes, and how to teach students with disabilities.
Childcare Provider
Childcare Provider
Childcare Providers care for children in a variety of settings, including homes, daycare centers, and preschools. They provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, and help them learn and grow. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Childcare Provider. This course will help you understand the different stages of child development, their challenges, and how to support healthy development.
Gerontologist
Gerontologist
Gerontologists study the aging process and the needs of older adults. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, and nursing homes. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Gerontologist. This course will help you understand the different challenges that older adults face, their causes, and how to help them live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers develop and implement policies and procedures for organizations. They work in a variety of settings, including businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. Abnormal Psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Human Resources Manager. This course will help you understand the different factors that affect employee behavior, how to create a positive work environment, and how to resolve employee conflicts.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s8ajoe/abnormal
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Abnormal Psychology.
This comprehensive handbook that provides an overview of the field of abnormal psychology. It useful reference for students and practitioners who want to learn more about the latest research in the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of abnormal psychology from an integrative perspective. It good choice for students who want to learn about the different approaches to understanding and treating abnormal behavior.
Explores the influence of culture on the development and expression of abnormal behavior. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the cultural factors that can contribute to mental illness.
Provides a comprehensive overview of abnormal child psychology. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the assessment and treatment of mental disorders in children.
Provides a comprehensive overview of abnormal psychology in adulthood. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the assessment and treatment of mental disorders in adults.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychopathology. It useful reference for students and practitioners who want to learn more about the latest research and best practices in psychopathology.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychopharmacology. It useful reference for students and practitioners who want to learn more about the latest research and best practices in psychopharmacology.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s8ajoe/abnormal
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Rating
4.6
Effort
8 to 12 hours per week for 8 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Doane University
Instructor
David Kays
Language
English
Transcript
English
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser