Psychological Trauma Concepts & Theories

Catalog description

This course focuses on the fundamental concepts, models and theories of psychological trauma. These topics include the definition of trauma; the history of trauma studies and treatment; the continuum of trauma; DSM 5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD and other trauma-related disorders; the role of dissociation in trauma; co-occurring disorders; types of trauma and traumatic stressors; theoretical models of traumatic stress and trauma treatment; and concepts of self-regulation. Attention will be paid to the relationship of trauma to physiology and neuro-biology; psychopharmacology; memory; development of the self; personality and character development; and other developmental, social and cultural factors. Students have an opportunity to investigate and research an area of individual interest in the field of trauma studies.