Course provides in-depth knowledge of mental illness and treatment. Students will develop competence in diagnosis with the DSM, analyze relevant information, and create effective treatment plans. Emphasizing multi-systems and bio-psycho-social approaches, it explores social injustice and libeling's impact on oppressed groups, preparing students for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning.
Athena Title
Assessment and Psychopathology
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in SOWK 7212E
Pre or Corequisite
(SOWK 7112 or SOWK 7112E) and (SOWK 7114 or SOWK 7114E) and (SOWK 7118 or SOWK 7118E) and (SOWK 7115 or SOWK 7115E) and (SOWK 7125 or SOWK 7125E) and SOWK 7113 and (SOWK 7126 or SOWK 7126E)
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will have an ability to apply various theoretical perspectives, including systems and ecological perspectives to an understanding of individual psychopathology.
Students will have an awareness of diversity variables such as gender, age, ethnicity, culture, and sexual orientation on the development, identification, and treatment of mental disorders.
Students will have an understanding of the influence of biological, psychological, and social variables on the development and manifestation of mental disorders.
Students will have an ability to critically analyze the conceptual, empirical, and practical advantages and limitations of diagnostic systems, with a focus on the DSM.
Students will have an ability to apply the knowledge and process of assessment and diagnosis to individual case situations.
Students will have an understanding of the ethical issues involved in assessment and diagnosis of clients.
Topical Outline
Assessment, Diagnosis, and Social Work
The Effects of Diagnosis – Labeling, Stigma, and Medical Records
Risk, Resilience, and Strengths
Culture and Psychopathology
The Cultural Formulation Interview & Mental Status Exam
Assessment and Diagnosis of Children/Adolescents
Prognosis and Treatment Planning
Disorders of Childhood
Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Bipolar Disorders
Major Depressive Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders
Neurocognitive Disorders
Personality and Eating Disorders
Substance Related and Addictive Disorders
Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and Psychotropic Medications
Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes
Social Awareness & Responsibility
The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.
