Syllabus
Science Prerequisites for Health Professionals
PSYO 1030: Abnormal Psychology, Spring, 2025
Credits - 3
Description
This abnormal psychology course will explore basic concepts and theories related to abnormal psychology and how psychopathology is classified. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the history of abnormal psychology, the negative impact of stigma related to the diagnosis of mental health disorders, strategies for clinical assessment, the biopsychosocial model for explaining mental illness, as well as the classification, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the major disorders. Upon completion, students should be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal behavior patterns as well as demonstrate knowledge of etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.
Materials
Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Program Outcomes
In lecture courses, students should be able to:
- Communicate scientific concepts and information clearly.
- Illustrate fundamental laws, theories, and principles of scientific disciplines.
- Apply knowledge and critical thinking skills to scientific problems.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how psychologists define abnormal psychology and how it is classified.
- Identify types of mental health professionals.
- Explain perceptions, diagnoses, and treatments of mental illness with appropriate historical context.
- Analyze the stigmas associated with mental illness.
- Evaluate mental illness using the biopsychosocial model.
- Employ appropriate methods for clinical assessment.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various anxiety disorders.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various obsessive-compulsive and related disorders.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various mood disorders.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various dissociative disorders.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders.
- Describe the etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various personality disorders.
SELF PACED DESIGN
On the course start date, students will have access to orientation. This must be completed to be able to gain access to the first module in the course. Students must complete the first module to gain access to the next one. We recommend that students spend about 15 hours per week to complete a course in 16 weeks. When trying to complete the course in less than 16 weeks, we typically see students do this successfully within 12-14 weeks. Instructors will be timely in grading and feedback, but it will not be instant.
Assignments
Self-Assessments/Matching Activities – Students will be provided a matching bank and will be asked to match key terms with their definitions or related concepts. Self-Assessments are not counted toward the student’s final grade.
Discussion Boards – Students will respond to a discussion prompt and will interact with peers by providing feedback to their discussion responses.
Clinical Assessment Assignment – In this assignment, students will watch a popular film depicting an individual with a mental health disorder and they will imagine they had an opportunity to administer a clinical assessment to the character and will complete the assessment with information provided in the film.
Reflection Papers – These written assignments ask students to reflect on different phenomena that occur in abnormal psychology in a manner that is informed by their own reading and research.
Problem-Based Learning Scenarios – These written assignments provide the student with a real-world example of a clinical issue from the subsection of diagnoses being addressed in that learning module. The student will be expected to apply their knowledge of abnormal psychology to suggest a strategy for diagnosing and treating the individual.
Creative Activity – Students will be asked to create a possible new mental health diagnosis. This proposed diagnosis will be justified using clinical research.
Holistic Case Study – In this written assignment, students will evaluate a complex case study of an individual with a mental health disorder. The student will be expected to apply their knowledge of abnormal psychology to suggest a strategy for clinical assessment, diagnosing, and treating the individual. The student will also be required to apply the biopsychosocial model to fully explain the etiology of the disorder.
Final Cumulative Exam (Proctored) – This is a 50-item, multiple-choice exam that is proctored. Students will have 90 minutes to complete the exam. Students may use a single page (front and back) of notes during the exam.
Practice Proctored Exam – There is a highly recommended Practice Proctored Exam available to all students. The first attempt is free. This exam does not cover course material and is not included in your overall course grade. It prepares test takers for what the testing environment will be like, what forms of identification are needed, and provides a chance to test your external webcam with a live proctor. This is a great way to become familiar with and prepare for your exam!
Grading Policy
Your grade in this course will be determined by the following criteria:
Grade Breakdown
| Assignment/Category | Grade |
|---|---|
| Self-Assessments/Matching Activities | 0% |
| Discussion Boards | 9% |
| Clinical Assessment Assignment | 10% |
| Reflection Papers | 15% |
| Problem-Based Learning Scenarios | 36% |
| Creative Activity | 5% |
| Holistic Case Study | 10% |
| Final Cumulative Exam | 15% |
| Total | 100% |
Grade Scale
| Grade | Points Grade | Point Average (GPA) |
| A | 94 – 100% | 4.00 |
| A- | 90 – 93% | 3.75 |
| B+ | 87 – 89% | 3.50 |
| B | 84 – 86% | 3.00 |
| B- | 80 – 83% | 2.75 |
| C+ | 77 – 79% | 2.50 |
| C | 74 – 76% | 2.00 |
| C- | 70 – 73% | 1.75 |
| D | 64 – 69% | 1.00 |
| F | 00 – 63% | 0.00 |
Schedule
|
Week |
Topic |
Readings/Resources |
Assignments |
|
1 |
Introduction to Abnormal Psychology |
Textbook Chapter 1 |
Discussion Board 1 Self-Assessment – Types of Mental Health Professionals Timeline Activity Reflection Paper – Stigma and Mental Illness |
|
2 |
Contemporary Models of Abnormal Psychology |
Textbook Chapter 2
Article “Racism as a Stressor for African Americans: A Biopsychosocial Model” |
Problem-based Learning Scenario – The Biopsychosocial Model |
|
3 |
Clinical Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment |
Textbook Chapter 3
DSM-5 – Basics in the DSM-5 |
Clinical Assessment Activity |
|
4 |
Anxiety Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 4: Anxiety Disorders (Sections 4–4.3.4) DSM-5: Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia) Video Anxiety Disorders
|
Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Anxiety Disorders |
|
5 |
Anxiety Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 4: Anxiety Disorders (Sections 4.5–4.6.3) DSM-5: Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia Video Scared to Leave Home
|
Self-Assessment – Anxiety Disorder Jeopardy Creative Activity – Propose a New Diagnosis |
|
6 |
Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 5: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Sections 5–5.1.5) DSM-5: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Introduction and the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder entry) Video OCD: A Monster in My Mind
|
Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Obsessive Compulsive Disorders – OCD |
|
7 |
Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 5: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Sections 5.2–5.2.5) DSM-5: Body Dysmorphic Disorder Video I Feel So Ugly: Body Dysmorphic Disorder
|
Self-Assessment – Matching OCD and BDD Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Obsessive Compulsive Disorders – BDD |
|
8 |
Mood Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 6: Mood Disorders (Sections 6–6.1.5) DSM-5: Depressive Disorders Introduction, Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) Video Mood Disorders
|
Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Mood Disorders – Major Depressive Disorder |
|
9 |
Mood Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 6: Mood Disorders (Sections 6. 2 – end) DSM-5: Depressive Disorders Introduction, Bipolar I and Bipolar II Video Living the Roller-Coaster
|
Self Assessment – Mood Disorders Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Bi-Polar I and Bi-Polar II Discussion Board 2 |
|
10 |
Dissociative Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 7: Dissociative Disorders (Sections 7–7.1.5) DSM-5: Dissociative Disorders Introduction, Depersonalization Disorder, and Derealization Disorder Video Dissociative Disorders
|
Reflection Paper – Dissociative Disorders – Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder |
|
11 |
Dissociative Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 7: Dissociative Disorders (Sections 7.2 – end) DSM-5: Dissociative Identity Disorder and Dissociative Amnesia Video: Dissociative Identity Disorder
|
Self-Assessment – Dissociative Disorders Fact or Fiction Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Dissociative Identity Disorder
|
|
12 |
Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 8: Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (Section 8 – 8.2.2) DSM-5: Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders Introduction, (Schizotypal Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Brief Psychotic Disorder, Schizophreniform Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) Video: I am Not a Monster: Schizophrenia
|
Reflection Paper – Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders |
|
13 |
Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 8: Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (Section 8.3 – end) Video: Schizophrenia: Neurotransmitter Tracts, Causes, Treatment & Assessment
|
Self-Assessment – Matching: Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorder Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Treatment of Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders |
|
14 |
Personality Disorders Part 1 |
Chapter 9: Personality Disorders (Section 9 – 9.2.3) DSM-5: General Personality Disorder and Cluster A Personality Disorders Video: Schizophrenia vs. Schizotypal vs. Schizoid Personality Disorder: the Differences.
|
Problem-Based Learning Scenario – Cluster A Personality Disorders |
|
15 |
Personality Disorders Part 2 |
Chapter 9: Personality Disorders (9.3 – end) DSM-5: Cluster B and Cluster C Personality Disorders Video – Exploring the Mind of a Killer
|
Self-Assessment – Matching – Personality Disorder Case Study Presentation |
|
16 |
Review and Final Assessment |
Review/Study Guide
|
Discussion Post 3 Final Proctored Cumulative Exam |
Student Resources
Online Student Support
Your Student Support Specialist is a resource for you - they will monitor course progression and provide assistance or guidance when needed. Please don’t hesitate to contact them for assistance, including, but not limited to course planning, course materials, billing, current problems or issues in a course, technology concerns, or personal emergencies.
Questions? Submit your student support request.
Online Peer Support
Togetherall is a 24/7 communication and emotional support platform monitored by trained clinicians. It’s a safe place online to get things off your chest, have conversations, express yourself creatively, and learn how to manage your mental health. If sharing isn’t your thing, Togetherall has other tools and courses to help you look after yourself with plenty of resources to explore. Whether you’re struggling to cope, feeling low, or just need a place to talk, Togetherall can help you explore your feelings in a safe supportive environment. You can join Togetherall using your UNE email address.
Instructor and Support Contact Information
Check Brightspace for specific instructor and support specialist contact information.
Student Lounge
The Student Lounge Discussion Forum is a designated support forum in which students may engage with each other and grapple with course content. Feel free to post questions, seek clarification, and support each other, but be mindful of UNE's Academic Integrity Policy.
Your instructor will monitor this forum. However, if you are seeking specific and timely answers to questions about course content or your personal grades, please contact your instructor via course messages. For questions about course materials, program policy, and how to navigate and proceed through the course, please contact your Student Service Advisor through the Student Portal.
Policies
Proctored Examinations
Your course may have proctored exams. Please see your course for full details, access, testing requirements, and guidelines.
Students must follow all proctoring requirements for their exams to be credited. Please contact your instructor for specific feedback.
Exam Attempts Policy
Students will receive two attempts at all proctored examinations. The higher score of the two attempts will be calculated into the final grade.
All students are encouraged to use a second attempt on their exams in order to improve their overall performance in the course.
Course Discussions
Discussion topics cover events or materials related to this course that contribute to a deeper understanding of key concepts and allow you to interact with your classmates and the instructor. Each discussion topic may require you to conduct internet research, read additional materials, visit a specific webpage, AND/OR view a short video before writing a response following the specific guidelines in the discussion topic prompt.
To earn full credit you will need to post a response to the discussion topic, respond to the original posts of other students, and then contribute meaningfully to an ongoing discussion. You may need to post your initial response before you will see any posts from your classmates. For special cases where one or two students are accelerating faster through the course, the instructor will participate in the discussion so that everyone has the opportunity to interact.
Please see Brightspace for a full description, along with specific guidelines, for each discussion topic. Discussion board assignments should be completed, along with all other assignments in the course, in the order that they appear. Due to the course design, you may be unable to take a proctored exam if you do not complete all assignments that appear prior to that exam.
Please also refer to the Grading Policy/Grade Breakdown section of the syllabus to learn the percentage of your grade that each discussion is worth.
Technology Requirements
Please review the technical requirements for UNE Online Programs: Technical Requirements
Course Length
A schedule of lectures and assignments is included in this syllabus. This is, however a self-paced course and you can complete the course in less time.
- Courses in the SPHP program are equivalent to one-semester courses designed to be completed in 16 weeks
- Enrollment in the course begins the day your section opens which is listed in the Academic Calendar found on the Student Success Portal.
- Course start and end dates are in respect to Eastern Time.
Withdrawal and Refund Policies
Please visit the enrollment page to review the withdrawal and refund policies.
Grade Policy
Students are expected to attempt and complete all graded assignments and proctored exams by the end date of the course. View the incomplete grade policy..
Transcripts
Due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, only the student may request official transcripts. This may be done online by going to the University of New England Registrar website and following the directions on the page.
Academic Integrity
The University of New England values academic integrity in all aspects of the educational experience. Academic dishonesty in any form undermines this standard and devalues the original contributions of others. It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to actively uphold the integrity of the academy; failure to act, for any reason, is not acceptable.
Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following:
- Cheating, copying, or the offering or receiving of unauthorized assistance or information.
- Fabrication or falsification of data, results, or sources for papers or reports.
- Action which destroys or alters the work of another student.
- Multiple submission of the same paper or report for assignments in more than one course without permission of each instructor.
- Plagiarism, the appropriation of records, research, materials, ideas, or the language of other persons or writers and the submission of them as one's own.
Charges of academic dishonesty will be reviewed by the Program Director. Penalties for students found responsible for violations may depend upon the seriousness and circumstances of the violation, the degree of premeditation involved, and/or the student’s previous record of violations. Appeal of a decision may be made to the Dean whose decision will be final. Student appeals will take place through the grievance process outlined in the student handbook.
Using Generative AI When Completing Coursework
Generative AI (GenAI) applications (like ChatGPT) have proven to be powerful and effective tools, and students are encouraged to become familiar with and use them. However, as with any tool, students must use GenAI in ways that support learning, not replace it. Learning to use AI responsibly and ethically is an important skill in today’s society.
In their courses, students are not allowed to use advanced automated tools, such as generative AI tools, on assignments unless explicitly directed to do so. Each student is expected to complete each assignment, including labs and quizzes as applicable, without substantive assistance from others, including automated tools.
Using AI-content generators to complete assignments without proper attribution violates academic integrity. By submitting assignments in UNE courses, you pledge to affirm that they are your own work and you attribute use of any and all tools and sources.
Unauthorized Use
Unauthorized use of AI is treated as a violation of academic integrity.
Citing AI Use
If permitted, students should indicate and cite any use of AI tools.
Instructor responsibility
Instructors should clearly reiterate, using UNE Online’s Policy, how students can use AI tools in their courses, and communicate this policy to students at the beginning of the semester.
Student responsibility
Students must follow the academic integrity policy of the University of New England.
An UNE-Compliant Webcam and Whiteboard is required for proctored exams. If you do not have one, you may order one here: UNE-Compliant Webcam and Whiteboard – Portal for UNE Online Students.