Introduction to Clinical Psychology

PSYC 236/3.0

Visual representation of schizophrenia. Multiple faces.

Overview

The experimental approach to understanding the causes, symptoms, course, and treatment of mental illness is emphasized in the analysis of disorders of cognition (e.g., schizophrenia), and problem behaviours (e.g., addictions, sexual disorders).

Please note: This course is typically offered in the winter term

Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will distinguish the diagnostic features of mental disorders to critically evaluate their overlapping and independent features
  2. Students will identify the independent and interactive biological and environmental factors associated with mental illnesses to evaluate the possible contributing factors to the onset and course of the conditions
  3. Students will contrast available treatment options for mental illnesses to critique the historical, present, and nascent opportunities to reduce symptoms and improve functioning
  4. Students will be able to critically evaluate basic research and clinical methods for classifying psychopathological conditions

Terms

Fall 2024
Course Dates
Delivery Mode
Online Synchronous

Evaluation

50% - Case Studies (x4)
15% - Weekly Quizzes
35% - Proctored Final Exam

**Evaluation subject to change**

Live Sessions

This course has optional live sessions (e.g. webinars, synchronous activities).

STUDENTS ENROLLED IN ONLY ONLINE COURSES WILL HAVE TWO OPTIONS TO WRITE THEIR EXAMS:

  1. You may choose to write your exam(s) online using Examity proctoring services where you will be charged the additional $100 exam fee; or
  2. You may choose to write your exam(s) in-person on Queen's campus in Kingston where you will NOT be charged the additional $100 exam fee.

LOCATION AND TIMING OF FINAL EXAMINATIONS

Once the exam schedule has been finalized the exam date will be posted on your SOLUS account. The exam dates for each Term are listed on the Faculty of Arts and Science webpage under "Important Dates." Student exam schedules for the Fall Term are posted via SOLUS immediately prior to the Thanksgiving holiday; for the Winter Term they are posted on the Friday before Reading Week, and for the Summer Term they are individually noted on the Arts and Science Online syllabi. Students should delay finalizing any travel plans until after the examination schedule has been posted. Exams will not be moved or deferred to accommodate employment, travel/holiday plans or flight reservations.

Textbook and Materials

ASO reserves the right to make changes to the required material list as received by the instructor before the course starts. Please refer to the Campus Bookstore website at http://www.campusbookstore.com/Textbooks/Search-Engine to obtain the most up-to-date list of required materials for this course before purchasing them.

  • Dozois, D.J.A. (2019). Abnormal Psychology: Perspectives, DSM-5 update edition, 6th edition. North York, Ontario. Loose leaf print text, ISBN: 9780134838991. eBook, ISBN: 9780134839127.

Time Commitment

Students can expect to spend, on average, about 10 - 12 hours per week (120 hours per term) on the course.