Course Overview: COUC 546 PsychopathologyThis course focuses on psychological disorders throughout the lifespan, emphasizing assessment, diagnosis, conceptualization, and counseling based on the DSM-5-TR. It integrates clinical and scientific research with a biblical worldview, aiming to equip students with a robust framework for understanding and treating mental disorders.

Rationale:This course is essential for developing a thorough knowledge of diagnostic criteria crucial for effective counseling. Understanding the DSM-5-TR and acquiring interviewing strategies are foundational for the diagnosis and will be beneficial for state licensure exams.

Course Learning Outcomes:Students will:

• Understand and apply diagnostic classifications and criteria for various mental and emotional disorders.
• Analyze case studies using differential diagnosis and DSM-5-TR.
• Gain knowledge of the etiology of various disorders and integrate a biblical worldview into their understanding.
• Develop competency in creating case presentations and applying evidence-based treatments.

Method of Instruction:This 8-week course is delivered digitally in an asynchronous format using Canvas as the primary instructional tool. Students will complete one module each week.

Schedule:

• Week 1:
  • Topics: Introduction to Psychopathology
  • Activities: Advising Acknowledgement Quiz, Discussion on Christian Worldview & Psychopathology, DSM-5-TR Summaries Assignment
• Week 2:
  • Topics: Anxiety, Trauma- & Stress-Related Disorders
  • Activities: Case Study on “Anna”, Quiz on Anxiety and Trauma Disorders
• Week 3:
  • Topics: Case Presentation Topics, Addictive Disorders
  • Activities: Case Study on “Sam”, Quiz for Case Presentation Topic Approval
• Week 4:
  • Topics: Schizophrenia Spectrum and Psychotic Disorders
  • Activities: Case Study on “Jeff”, Quiz on Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
• Week 5:
  • Topics: Factitious, Somatic, and Neurocognitive Disorders
  • Activities: Case Study on “Jane”, DSM-5-TR Summaries
• Week 6:
  • Topics: Physical, Neurocognitive, Dissociative Disorders
  • Activities: Case Study on “Phil”, Quiz on Somatic and Neurocognitive Disorders
• Week 7:
  • Topics: Benchmark Case Presentation
  • Activities: Complete and Submit Case Presentation, DSM-5-TR Summaries
• Week 8:
  • Topics: Disorders Often First Seen in Childhood or Adolescence
  • Activities: Quiz on Childhood Disorders, Dispositions Reflection Quiz

Textbook Readings and Lecture Presentations:

• Required readings and multimedia presentations are listed for each module to support learning outcomes and provide background knowledge on each topic.

Course Assignments:

• Include DSM-5-TR summaries, benchmark case presentation papers, and multiple quizzes covering various disorders and case studies.

Course Grading:

• Total of 1010 points divided among quizzes, discussions, and assignments. Specific points are allocated to each component, with major assignments like the Benchmark Case Presentation Paper and Case Study Assignments contributing significantly to the final grade.

Policies:

• Late Assignment Policy: Deductions are made for late submissions unless prior approval is obtained.
• Professional Communication: Expectations for professional and respectful communication are emphasized.

Academic Resources:

• Disability Assistance: Available through Liberty University’s Online Office of Disability Accommodation Support.
• Attendance: Regular participation is required, and non-attendance can result in course failure.

By adhering to the course schedule and fully engaging with all assignments and discussions, students will gain comprehensive insights into psychopathology, grounded in both clinical expertise and a biblical worldview.