SW-607 PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
This concentration course expands the students' understanding of mental health and psychopathology from a social work perspective. Drawing on a functional approach to assessment, students examine the history of the definitions of mental illness and metal health; common disorders encountered in practice; the impact on the individual, family members, and the social environment; factors that promote mental health; and conducting assessments from a social work ethics-based perspective. Emphasis is given to recognizing indicators of mental disorders, the context in which they occur, and identifying and understanding the classifications described in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Emphasis is also given to what is considered best practices in mental health assessment for children, adolescents and adults. This course provides the opportunity for students to explore their own values, ideas, and experiences related to mental health and develop sensitivity to socio-cultural and political issues in defining mental health problems. Attention is focused on the role of the social workers in mental health practice. Prerequisites: Completion of Foundation Level courses.