Abnormal Psychology: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Abnormal Psychology (PSYCH X146) - Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to the field of abnormal psychology. Students will explore the dynamics and prevention of abnormal behavior, including various psychological disorders, their symptoms, causes, and treatments. The course emphasizes understanding diagnostic criteria, clinical assessment, and evidence-based treatment approaches.

• Abnormal Psychology: The scientific study of unusual patterns of behavior, emotion, and thought, which may or may not be understood as precipitating a mental disorder.

• Major Disorders Covered: Neurosis, psychosis, personality disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, addiction, and other abnormal personality patterns.

• Course Applications: Comparison of perspectives on etiology, maintenance of psychopathology, and current evidence-based treatments.

Course Prerequisites

• There are no prerequisites for this course.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Abnormal Psychology in a Changing World by Jeffrey M. Burger, Pearson, 11th Edition (2021)

• ISBNs: 9780135792840, 0135792054 (Print); eText ISBN: 9780135839438, 0135839439

Methods of Instruction

• Scheduled synchronous online lectures via Zoom

• Videos

• Required reading

• Required writing assignments

• Exams

• Final exam

Main Topics in Abnormal Psychology

Introduction and Methods of Research

This topic introduces the scientific methods used in abnormal psychology, including research design, data collection, and analysis. Students learn how to critically evaluate psychological studies and understand the importance of empirical evidence.

• Research Methods: Case studies, surveys, experiments, and correlational studies.

• Example: Using a randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression.

Perspectives on Abnormal Behavior

Students will examine various theoretical perspectives that explain abnormal behavior, such as biological, psychological, and sociocultural models.

• Biological Perspective: Focuses on genetic, neurological, and physiological factors.

• Psychological Perspective: Includes psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic approaches.

• Sociocultural Perspective: Considers the impact of society, culture, and environment.

• Example: The diathesis-stress model explains how genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors interact to produce mental disorders.

Classification and Diagnosis of Mental Disorders

This section covers the systems used to classify and diagnose mental disorders, such as the DSM-5. Students learn to differentiate between various psychiatric disorders and understand diagnostic criteria.

• DSM-5: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals.

• Clinical Assessment: Involves interviews, psychological testing, and observation.

• Example: Diagnosing Major Depressive Disorder requires the presence of specific symptoms for at least two weeks.

Major Categories of Disorders

The course covers a wide range of psychological disorders, their symptoms, causes, and treatments.

• Anxiety Disorders: Includes generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety disorder.

• Mood Disorders: Includes depression, bipolar disorder, and related conditions.

• Psychotic Disorders: Includes schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

• Personality Disorders: Includes borderline, antisocial, and other personality disorders.

• Trauma and Stress-Related Disorders: Includes PTSD and acute stress disorder.

• Eating Disorders: Includes anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Includes ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.

• Neurocognitive Disorders: Includes dementia and delirium.

• Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders: Includes alcohol and drug use disorders.

Clinical Assessment and Treatment

Students will learn about the principles of clinical assessment and evidence-based treatment approaches for psychiatric disorders.

• Assessment Tools: Structured interviews, self-report questionnaires, and behavioral observations.

• Treatment Modalities: Psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), pharmacotherapy, and community-based interventions.

• Example: Exposure therapy is commonly used to treat phobias.

Course Assignments and Evaluation

Students are evaluated through a combination of reading assignments, research papers, presentations, quizzes, and exams. All written work must follow APA formatting guidelines.

• Reading Assignments: Students must read assigned chapters before each session.

• Research Paper: 10-15 pages, including at least eight peer-reviewed articles. Graded on content, organization, grammar, and APA format.

• Research Paper Presentation: 15-20 minute presentation using PowerPoint or Google Slides.

• Quizzes: Based on assigned readings and lectures.

• Exams: Three exams and a final exam, consisting of multiple choice and true/false questions.

Grading Criteria

Grades are based on participation, assignments, quizzes, presentations, and exams. The following table summarizes the grade breakdown:

Assignments	Weighting	Points
Discussions and Participation	9.9%	41
Exam 1	11.9%	50
Exam 2	11.9%	50
Exam 3	11.9%	50
Final Exam	11.9%	50
Quizzes	16.7%	75
Research Paper Presentation	11.9%	50
Midterm Paper	14%	75
Total	100%	411

Grade Scale

Grade (For Roster)	Percentage Breakdown	Description
A+	94–100%	Excellent
A	90–93%	Excellent
A-	86–89%	Good
B+	83–85%	Good
B	80–82%	Good
B-	76–79%	Fair
C+	73–75%	Fair
C	70–72%	Fair
D+	66–69%	Barely passed
D	63–65%	Barely passed
D-	60–62%	Barely passed
F	< 60%	Failed

Class Participation and Attendance

• Regular attendance and participation are required for successful completion of the course.

• Students must keep up with readings and assignments to engage in meaningful discussion and critical thinking.

APA Formatting

All written assignments and discussions require APA 7th edition formatting. For more information, see: APA Formatting Guide

Technical Requirements

• Access to Canvas LMS and Zoom for online sessions.

• Reliable internet connection and computer meeting technical specifications.

Important Deadlines

• Drop Deadline: September 3rd, 1:29PM PST

• Withdrawal/Grade Option Change Deadline: December 10th, 2025

Contact Information

• Instructor: Nicholas Nardi, PhD

• Email: [e-mail]

• Availability: By email (response within 24-48 hours)

Additional info:

• Course topics and assignments are designed to prepare students for advanced study or professional work in psychology and mental health.

• Students are expected to adhere to the UC Berkeley Extension Code of Student Conduct.