Abnormal behavior refers to behaviors that cause distress and impair daily functioning (Feldman, 2015, p. 406). While everyone experiences occasional mood swings or moments of depression, these alone do not indicate a major psychological disorder. To be considered a psychological disorder, behavior must be disabling or lead to dysfunction.
Psychological disorders such as anxiety, mood, and personality disorders are among the most common diagnoses. Research has shown that various factors, including genetics, environment, and sociocultural influences, contribute to the development of psychological disorders. The line between normal and disordered behavior can be difficult to draw, and in clinical settings, these factors influence how both patients and psychologists understand disorders and determine appropriate treatments.
PSYC 1001 Week 6: Psychological Disorders and Treatment
The biomedical model traditionally views psychological disorders as illnesses to be cured, whereas the psychotherapeutic approach recognizes the influence of culture, environment, and life experiences on our understanding of psychological disorders. Consequently, the same problems may be addressed through different treatment approaches based on individual needs and the theoretical orientation of the psychologist.
This week, you will explore different psychological disorders, as well as various perspectives on their causes and the most effective treatment strategies.
Learning Objectives:
- Reflect on course concepts in relation to professional and academic development and social change.
- Demonstrate an understanding of different perspectives on abnormality.
- Define major psychological disorders.
- Recognize major approaches to psychotherapy.
- Learning Resources:
- This study source can be accessed at: [link to the study source]
Required Readings:
- Feldman, R. (2012). Psychology and your life (2nd ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
- Chapter 10: “Psychological Disorders”
- Chapter 11: “Treatment of Psychological Disorders”
- Walden University. (n.d.). Social change. Retrieved from http://www.waldenu.edu/about/social-change
PSYC 1001 Week 6: Psychological Disorders and Treatment Assignment: Blog: Reflection
Recall your beliefs about the field of psychology from Week 1. How have these beliefs evolved? Over the past six weeks, you have adopted a scientific approach to understanding observable behaviors and internal experiences such as emotions, perceptions, and cognition. It is likely that your perception of the field has shifted as a result. For instance, you may have discovered that some of your initial beliefs were incorrect. You have expanded your knowledge and gained confidence in your understanding of the science of psychology. Hopefully, you have also begun to uncover the connections between the brain and our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Take a moment to reflect on your personal growth and learning during this term, and consider how you will incorporate your newfound knowledge into your everyday life.
Create a blog entry that addresses the following:
- Reflect on how your perception of psychology has changed based on what you have learned over the past six weeks.
- Describe at least three specific topics or theories you have learned about this term and how they can be applied to your personal and professional life.
- Explain how what you have learned in this course will impact your approach to social change.
- Support your blog entry with at least one reference from a scholarly or empirical resource, such as the textbook.
- Submission and Grading Information:
- To post your blog entry, click on the “Week 6 Assignment” link. Then click on the “Create Blog Entry” button to begin your blog post.
PSYC 1001 Week 6: Psychological Disorders and Treatment Grading Criteria:
This 20-question test assesses your understanding and application of the information covered in this week’s learning resources. The test has a 40-minute time limit. If you exceed the time limit, your final test score will be reduced by 1 point for every minute you exceed the limit. In case of technical difficulties or questions about the test, contact Student Support.
Complete the Test for Understanding
- Submission and Grading Information:
- Submit your Test for Understanding by Day 7.
Week in Review:
In this final week, you reflected on course concepts related to your professional and academic development and social change. You also gained an understanding of major psychological disorders and various approaches to psychotherapy.
