Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine

Catalog description

This course presents a two-fold approach to issues in behavioral medicine and psychiatry: 1) A biopsychosocial and family systems model of the individual and family developmental stages present throughout the life cycle, and 2) an introduction to the major psychopathologies encountered in clinical practice. Emphasis is placed on medical assessment, diagnostic criteria, clinical management, and first-line treatments. Topics in behavioral medicine include problems of childhood, domestic violence, clinician well-being, stress management, and normal and abnormal sexuality. The psychopathologies include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance-related disorders, trauma, chronic illness, aging, and end of life care. Case histories and audio-visual presentations will enhance the student’s understanding.