Clinical Psychopharmacology (MS) Program

Course Descriptions

PX 279—Psychological Foundations: Psychopathology and Review of DSM-IV-TR

8 credits

What is Abnormality? Models of Abnormality, Architecture of DSM
This course will explore psychological models and maps of abnormal behavior and provide an overview and critique of the DSM-IV-TR.

Assessment in Primary Care
This course will survey the psychological assessment approaches that are especially applicable to primary care medicine.

Mood and Anxiety Disorders
This course will present etiological, diagnostic, assessment and intervention issues related to mood and anxiety disorders. Various therapeutic techniques will be discussed.

Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Illness, other Psychotic Disorders and Cognitive
This module will present various etiological, diagnostic, assessment and intervention issues related to psychotic disorders. Cognitive and neurological disorders including dementia, developmental delays, head injury and other neurological assaults will be discussed.

Personality Disorders and Substance Abuse
Etiological, assessment, diagnostic and treatment strategies will be presented for personality disorders. Current research on substance abuse and the dual diagnosed population will be discussed.

Life Cycle Issues and Selected Topics in Mental Health
The special developmental issues and intervention strategies for children, adolescents and the elderly will be reviewed. Other topics to be surveyed include sleep, domestic violence, sexual assault, PTSD, cultural issues, grief and bereavement.

Summary and Integration
An overview and integration of DSM-IV-TR will be offered to be followed by topics which require further exploration. Students will be involved in deciding which areas they would like to further examine.

Updated 10/11/07