Psychological Disorders

This course examines conceptions of abnormality, how psychological disorders are classified, and how they are treated. The DSM classification system and alternative systems will be critically considered, and the causes of psychological disorders will be discussed from a variety of perspectives (e.g., biological, behaviourist, sociocultural). Disorders to be discussed include (but are not limited to) depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and eating disorders. In addition, the course includes consideration of cross-cultural factors, and ethical issues.