Purpose

This course is designed to be an Introduction to Psychology course.  It will cover:

1. Developmental Theories

2. Mental Health

3. Diagnostics

4. Interventions

5. Ethics

6. Career and Licensure Information

Using the Bible, the Textbook and relevant scholarly journal articles, these 6 categories will be covered from a Christian World View.  The class will use guided and Socratic discussions to study major theories of  development, mental health and interventions.  We will compare and contrast these theories with Scripture.  We will learn and practice diagnostic skills on five axes and choose appropriate interventions.  We will learn the basics of 5 interventions (Psychoanalytic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic, Solution-Focused and Community Focused).  We will think about them critically in the light of Scripture.  We will define ethics and discuss ethical dilemmas that could impact a Christian in the mental health profession. Finally, we will discuss career choices and different types of licensure.

This class meets all the requirements for an advanced Introduction to Psychology Course. I will have extra requirements for those that want to make it an Honors course.