PSYD 895A Special Topics: Women and Mental Illness

(Formerly PP 8950). Women are diagnosed with mental illness at higher rates than men, and many DSM-5 disorders are disproportionately diagnosed in women. This course will explore the gender discrepancy in many disorders utilizing a contextual, historical, biopsychosocial perspective. Students will explore how the lived experiences of women (including gender role socialization and high rates of trauma) may contribute to mental illness, critically analyze existing diagnostic systems, understand the dangers of gender-based diagnostic bias, and consider effective prevention and treatment strategies. In order to understand the etiology of disorders, students will consider cross-cultural research and understand the differential and protective factors for women from diverse backgrounds. The course format will mirror that of the DSM-5 system, providing an in-depth attempt to analyze the gender differences within many major categories that predominately affect women. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 1.5 semester hour

Credits

1.5

Distribution

Argosy Courses