Contextual Dimensions of Diagnosis

Catalog description

Developmental, systemic and constructivist models of problem formation are linked to medical/neurobiological explanations of how people adapt to environmental and community demands. The influences of family, social, community and cultural systems are included in case conceptualization and treatment planning. Diagnostic procedures and differential diagnosis are taught within the current classification (DSM) system with emphasis on use, misuse and legal/ethical implications. Case conceptualization is taught according to current professional research on counseling and developmental theories. Research that explores the effects of biopsychosocial and multicultural influences on the emergence and/or maintenance of abnormal functioning is also reviewed. Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students. Enrollment limited to students with the SPECIAL APPROVAL attribute.