University Institute of Liberal
Arts and Humanities
BA Psychology (Hons) - Batch 2021
Course Name - Abnormal Psychology
Course Code - 21HYT-320
Faculty Name – Ms. Pooja Jamwal
DISCOVER . LEARN . EMPOWER
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Course Objectives
1 Develop understanding of a range of child and adult psychopathology and diagnoses
including, diagnostic criteria, assessment-related issues, presentation, course, and
treatment.
2 Understand the evidence based treatments of a range of psychopathology and disorders
and use and conduct a suicide risk assessment.
3 Demonstrate an awareness of the interaction of culture and psychopathology.
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COURSE OUTCOMES
Understanding the complexities of diagnosing and its effect on patient’s life
CO1
Describe the different diagnostic criteria and guidelines.
CO2
Application of various treatments for disorders
CO3
Analyze the symptoms associated to disorders
CO4
Evaluate the historical evolution of the diagnostic guidelines and treatments.
CO5
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CONTRIBUTERS
Psychopathology, the study of
mental disorders, involves
multifaceted causes, often
stemming from a combination
of biological, psychological,
social, and environmental
factors. Understanding these
causes helps in developing
effective treatments and
interventions. Here are some
key contributors to
psychopathology:
• https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/b/psychopathology-occupies-human-
mind-comes-out-take-concrete-form-outside-286116744.jpg
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BIOLOGICAL FACTORS
Biological factors play a significant role in the development and manifestation of
psychopathology. These factors involve the influence of genetics, neurobiology, and the
overall functioning of the brain and body. Here are some key biological factors associated
with psychopathology:
Genetics:
• Heritability: Many mental health disorders have a genetic component, meaning that
individuals with a family history of a particular disorder may be at a higher risk of
developing it themselves. However, genetics alone do not determine the development of
psychopathology; environmental factors also play a crucial role.
• Genetic Vulnerability: Certain genetic variations or mutations may increase
susceptibility to specific mental health conditions. For example, variations in genes
related to neurotransmitter function or brain structure may contribute to the risk of
developing disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression.
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NEUROTRANSMITTERS:
1.Chemical Messengers: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that
transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain. Imbalances in
neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin, dopamine, and
norepinephrine, have been implicated in various mental health
disorders. For example, low serotonin levels are associated with
conditions like depression and certain anxiety disorders.
2.Neurotransmitter Receptor Function: Abnormalities in the
functioning of neurotransmitter receptors can contribute to
psychopathology. For instance, disruptions in the dopamine
receptor system are linked to conditions like schizophrenia .
:
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BRAIN STRUCTURE AND
FUNCTION
1. Neuroanatomy: Structural abnormalities in the brain, such as changes in the size
or connectivity of specific brain regions, are associated with various mental health
disorders. For example, differences in the hippocampus and amygdala are observed
in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
2. Neurofunctional Activity: Altered patterns of brain activity, as detected through
neuroimaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), can
provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying psychopathology.
Differences in brain activation have been observed in conditions such as obsessive-
compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
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HORMONAL INFLUENCES
Endocrine System: Hormones, such as cortisol and thyroid hormones, play a role in
regulating the body's stress response and energy metabolism. Dysregulation of the
endocrine system can contribute to conditions like anxiety disorders and mood
disorders.
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PRENATAL AND PERINATAL
FACTORS
1.Maternal Health: Exposure to certain prenatal factors, such as
maternal stress, malnutrition, or substance use, can influence
fetal brain development and increase the risk of
psychopathology later in life.
2.Birth Complications: Adverse events during birth, such as
oxygen deprivation, can impact brain function and contribute to
the development of conditions like intellectual disabilities or
cerebral palsy.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS:
• Psychological factors play a crucial role in the development, maintenance, and expression of psychopathology.
These factors encompass a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral elements that contribute to an
individual's mental health. Here are key psychological factors associated with psychopathology:
1. Cognitive Processes:
1. Thought Patterns: Distorted or negative thought patterns, such as cognitive biases and irrational beliefs, are associated with various mental
health disorders. For example, individuals with depression may have a tendency to engage in negative self-talk and perceive events in a
pessimistic light.
2. Cognitive Deficits: Impairments in cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, and executive functioning, can contribute to the
development of disorders like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or schizophrenia.
2. Emotional Factors:
1. Emotion Regulation: Difficulties in regulating emotions, such as heightened emotional reactivity or emotional suppression, can be linked to
conditions like mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.
2. Emotional Trauma: Experiencing traumatic events, particularly in early life, can have a profound impact on emotional well-being and
contribute to the development of disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
3. Behavioral Patterns:
1. Learned Behaviors: Behavioral patterns acquired through learning and conditioning processes can contribute to the development of
psychopathology. For instance, maladaptive coping strategies learned in response to stress may contribute to the development or maintenance
of disorders like substance use disorders.
2. Reinforcement and Punishment: The consequences of behavior, whether positive or negative reinforcement, can influence the likelihood of
certain behaviors occurring again. This is relevant in conditions such as addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
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4. Social and Interpersonal Factors:
1. Social Support: The quality and availability of social support can have a significant
impact on mental health. Lack of social support or experiencing social isolation may
contribute to the development of disorders like depression.
2. Interpersonal Relationships: Dysfunctional or unhealthy relationships can be a source of
stress and contribute to the onset or exacerbation of mental health conditions, including
anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
5.Personality Factors:
3. Personality Traits: Certain personality traits and characteristics are associated with an
increased susceptibility to specific mental health disorders. For example, perfectionism
may contribute to anxiety disorders, while impulsivity can be linked to substance use
disorders.
4. Personality Disorders: Distinct patterns of personality, including difficulties in self-
identity and interpersonal relationships, are central to personality disorders such as
borderline personality disorder or narcissistic personality disorder.
6. Coping Mechanisms:
5. Coping Styles: The strategies individuals use to cope with stress and adversity can
influence mental health outcomes. Adaptive coping mechanisms can contribute to
resilience, while maladaptive coping strategies may contribute to psychopathology. 11
Cluster A - Odd or Eccentric
Disorders:
1.Paranoid Personality Disorder: Characterized by
pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, leading to a
reluctance to confide in or form close relationships.
2.Schizoid Personality Disorder: Involves a lack of
interest in social relationships, a preference for solitary
activities, and limited emotional expression.
3.Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Features social
and interpersonal deficits, as well as cognitive or
perceptual distortions and eccentric behavior.
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Cluster B - Dramatic, Emotional,
or Erratic Disorders
•:
1.Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): Characterized by a
disregard for the rights of others, lack of empathy, and a history of
behavior that violates social norms.
2.Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Involves unstable
relationships, self-image, and mood, accompanied by impulsive
behavior and a fear of abandonment.
3.Histrionic Personality Disorder: Characterized by a need for
attention, excessive emotionality, and inappropriate seductive
behavior.
4.Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Features a grandiose sense of
self-importance, a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success,
and a lack of empathy.
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Cluster B - Dramatic, Emotional,
or Erratic Disorders
1.Avoidant Personality Disorder: Involves social
inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity
to negative evaluation.
2.Dependent Personality Disorder: Characterized by
a pervasive need to be taken care of and a fear of
separation, leading to submissive and clinging behavior.
3.Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder
(OCPD): Involves preoccupation with orderliness,
perfectionism, and control at the expense of flexibility
and openness.
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Trauma and Stressor-Related
Disorders
Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders are a group of mental health conditions that are
triggered by exposure to a traumatic or stressful event. These disorders can have a
significant impact on a person's emotional well-being, relationships, and overall
functioning. Here are some key Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders:
1.Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD can develop after exposure to a
traumatic event that involves actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual
violence. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks,
avoidance of reminders, negative changes in mood and cognition, and heightened
arousal.
2.Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): Similar to PTSD, ASD occurs in response to a traumatic
event but is diagnosed when symptoms last for a minimum of three days and up to four
weeks. If symptoms persist beyond this timeframe, a diagnosis of PTSD may be
considered.
3.Adjustment Disorders: This group of disorders involves an emotional or behavioral
reaction to a stressor or life change that exceeds what is considered a normal reaction.
The reaction may cause significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or
other areas of functioning.
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Neurodevelopmental disorders
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of conditions that
typically manifest early in childhood and involve impairments in
the growth and development of the brain and central nervous
system. These disorders often affect a child's behavior, cognitive
functioning, social interactions, and communication skills. Here
are some notable neurodevelopmental disorders:
1.Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD is a complex
neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in
social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors. The
term "spectrum" reflects the wide variation in challenges and
strengths that individuals with ASD may experience.
2.Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is
characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity,
and impulsivity that can impact a person's functioning in various
settings, such as school, work, or social environments.
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Eating Disorders
•
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by persistent disturbances in
eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions related to food and body weight. These disorders can
have severe physical and emotional consequences and often coexist with other mental health
issues. The most common eating disorders include:
1.Anorexia Nervosa: Individuals with anorexia nervosa have an intense fear of gaining weight and
a distorted body image that leads to restricted food intake, resulting in significantly low body
weight. They may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and other behaviors to maintain
or achieve a thin appearance. Anorexia nervosa can lead to severe physical complications.
2.Bulimia Nervosa: Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of overeating (binge-
eating) followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting to
avoid weight gain. Individuals with bulimia may have a relatively normal weight, making it
challenging to detect the disorder based on appearance alone.
3.Binge-Eating Disorder (BED): BED involves recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of
food in a short period, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. Unlike bulimia, individuals with
BED do not engage in regular compensatory behaviors. BED can lead to obesity and related health
issues.
4.Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): ARFID is characterized by limited food
preferences, avoidance of certain foods or textures, and an unwillingness to eat certain foods
based on sensory issues, rather than concerns about weight or body image. This disorder can lead
to nutritional deficiencies and impairments in physical and social functioning.
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Assessment pattern
Students are assessed on the basis of the following parameters:
• Hourly Tests - 2
• Term Paper
• Open Book Test
• Quiz
• Presentation
• Documentary Analysis
• Student Engagement
• End Semester Exam
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REFERENCES
a. Textbooks / Reference Books
• T1Sadock, B.J., Sadock, V.A. (2008). Kaplan and Sadock’s Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioural Sciences/Clinical
Psychology. New York: Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
• T2Sue, B., Sue, D.W. and Sue, S. (2003). Understanding Abnormal Behaviour. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
• T3Castonguay, L. G. &Oltmanns, T. F. (Eds.). (2013). Psychopathology: From Science to Clinical Practice.New
York, NY: The Guilford Press. ISBN: 978-1462508037
• T4Oltmanns, T.F., Martin, M.T., Neale, J.M., & Davison, G.C. (2015). Case Studies in Abnormal
Psychology(10th edition). Massachusetts: Wiley. ISBN: 978-1-118-83629-3
• T5 Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders(5th ed.).; American Psychiatric Association; ISBN-
13: 011-0743488109, ISBN-10: 0890425558;
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THANK YOU
For queries
Email: [email protected]
