Overview of Course

Have you ever wondered what makes the difference between everyday struggles and serious mental health conditions? What defines mental health versus mental illness, and how do these boundaries shift across cultures? If you’re curious about how the mind works, how disorders develop, and how society shapes our understanding of these issues, this course is for you!

In this course, we dive deep into the world of abnormal psychology—exploring conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and many more. Through a biopsychosocial and cultural lens, we’ll unpack how these disorders are experienced differently across cultures, and how factors like race, gender, ethnicity, and social class play a pivotal role in shaping diagnosis and treatment. This course will challenge you to critically evaluate the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and other diagnostic systems. We’ll explore the impact of social injustice, stigma, and discrimination on mental health outcomes, and you’ll gain insight into how societal forces influence both our understanding and treatment of mental illness globally. By the end of the course, you'll not only have a comprehensive understanding of major mental disorders but also a more informed perspective on mental health as a culturally and socially constructed concept. Engage with thought-provoking discussions, real-world case studies, and explore the nuances of mental health in ways that go beyond textbooks. Whether you’re pursuing a career in psychology or simply looking to better understand yourself and others, this course will equip you with the knowledge to think critically about mental health in our world today.