PSY_230_1

Course Introduction

• Abnormal & Clinical Psychology (PSY 230)

• Instructor: Dr. Joy M. Bolger, MS LMHC EdD

• Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University

• Lecture 1 Overview

Overview of Psychopathology

• Psychopathology: Scientific study of psychological disorders.

Understanding Psychological Disorders

• Definition: Criteria for what constitutes a psychological disorder was explored.

Describing Abnormality

• Terms used to refer to abnormal behavior:

  • Psychopathology

  • Mental illness

  • Behavior disorder

  • Emotional disturbance

• Notion that terms can acquire derogatory meanings.

• Challenge in labeling mental disorders effectively.

What is Abnormal Behavior?

• Characteristics of Abnormal Behavior:

  • Unexpected actions evaluated negatively due to deviation from norms.

  • Concepts:

    • Atypical or Cultural Inappropriateness

    • Distress to self or others

    • Impairment in Functioning

    • Psychological Dysfunction

Distress

• Definition: Negative internal emotions or experiences.

• Not observable by others, examples include:

  • Unhappiness

  • Fear

  • Apathy

  • Guilt

• Some conditions (e.g., mania) might not cause distress.

Impairment in Functioning

• Concept: Inability to function adequately in social roles.

• Examples:

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Psychosis

  • Personality Disorder

Psychological Dysfunction

• Definition: Breakdown in cognitive, emotional, or behavioral functioning.

• Analogous to physical disability.

Criteria for Abnormality

• Behaviors assessed through:

  • Statistical infrequency

  • Dysfunction

  • Personal distress

  • Violation of norms

• None of these criteria alone adequately classifies abnormal behavior.

Diagnosable Disorders

• Discussion on determining when a condition constitutes a mental disorder.

DSM-5 Definition

• A mental disorder defined as:

  • A syndrome causing clinically significant disturbance in cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior.

  • Reflects dysfunction in psychological, biological, or developmental processes.

• Associated with significant distress/disability in important activities.

• Distinguishes between mental disorders and normal responses to stress or social deviance unless linked to dysfunction.

Qualities of Good Mental Well-Being

• Key Qualities:

  • Effective functioning and satisfaction in life.

  • Healthy, emotionally gratifying relationships.

  • Realistic self-assessment of abilities.

Mental Health Professionals

• Types of Professionals:

  • Psychiatrists (M.D.) for medications

  • Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists (Ph.D.)

  • LMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors)

  • LCSW (Psychiatric and non-psychiatric social workers)

  • Psychiatric nurses (MN/MSN)

Clinical Description

• Unique behaviors, thoughts, and feelings defining specific disorders.

• Example format: "Patient presents with…"

• Key Components:

  • Etiology: Cause of disorder

  • Treatment: Evidence-based plans

  • Prognosis: Expected course of disorder.

Multidimensional Approach to Understanding Abnormal Behavior

• Introduction to the concept and its significance.

Course Logistics

Course Materials

• Lecture slides/notes will be provided.

• Readings from "Essentials of Abnormal Psychology" (8th Edition).

Course Schedule

• Dates for lectures, topics, and exams outlined:

  • Introductions, historical context, assessments, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, etc.

  • Midterm and final exam dates provided.

Assessment of Scholastic Performance

• Exams and Points Distribution:

  • Midterm I: 20 pts, Midterm II: 20 pts, Final Exam: 35 pts.

  • Quizzes and case analyses contribute to overall score.

• Policies on exam makeup and extra credit opportunities stated.

Promoting Successful Outcomes

• Suggestions:

  • Attend lectures and check Brightspace regularly.

  • Read corresponding chapters before discussions.

  • Avoid academic integrity violations.

  • Use available resources and seek help early if issues arise.

Final Note

• An encouraging message for a successful semester.