The main goal of this class are to gain an introductory exposure to the nature of the psychiatric disorder known as schizophrenia as revealed by the scientific method. We will discuss a broad range of findings from the scientific investigation of biological and psychological factors related to schizophrenia and its treatment. More specifically we will learn about: (1) key symptomatic features through discussion and enactments of interviews with actors portraying many of the cardinal features of the illness, (2) what brain imaging studies (MRI and fMRI) and neurochemistry have taught us about the neuroscience of the disorder, (3) scientific psychological data and theories concerning cognition, emotion and behavior in schizophrenia, and (4) current, evidence-based somatic and psychosocial approaches to treatment. A brief historical overview of the recent emergence of the psychiatric category of schizophrenia will be presented as well.
Offered By
Skills you will gain
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
An Introduction to the Disorder
The first module is focused on introducing key symptom characteristics of the psychiatric diagnosis known as schizophrenia, and describes current thinking around potential causes and biological correlates of the disorder.
Symptom Assessment and History
The second module is focused on a continuing exploration of symptoms in the disorder through simulated client-clinician interactions. Lectures in this unit also focus on the history of the treatment of schizophrenia in Western culture.
Neuroanatomy and Neuroimaging
In the third module we begin to discuss the neurochemistry of the disorder as well as common manifestations of those diagnosed with schizophrenia on structural and functional brain MRI scans. First, though, we look at two more client-clinician simulations to explore symptoms and recovery.
Psychological Science
In the fourth module we discuss common cognitive deficits, disruptions in social cognition and cognitive models of the disorder.
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Top reviews from Schizophrenia
INTERESTING COURSE. I HAVEN'T GIVEN SCHIZOPHRENIA MUCH THOUGHT OVER THE YEARS, BUT AFTER THIS COURSE A FEW RELATIONSHIPS AND UNDERSTANDING OF THEIR RELATIVES MAKE MORE SENSE. THANKS SO MUCH.
very informative would definitely recommend to anyone with a relatively detailed knowledge of psychology and neuroscience and who are looking into mental health - great course
Instructor
Matt Kurtz
ProfessorAbout Wesleyan University
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Once you enroll for a Certificate, you’ll have access to all videos, quizzes, and programming assignments (if applicable). Peer review assignments can only be submitted and reviewed once your session has begun. If you choose to explore the course without purchasing, you may not be able to access certain assignments.
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
What is the refund policy?
Is financial aid available?
I am experiencing psychotic symptoms described in this course. Is this course a place to seek and receive help?
No. This course engages with the scientific research literature and the history of our understanding of the psychiatric disorder labelled schizophrenia. Instead we suggest that you contact your local mental health agency, or if you are in the US your state association for psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses or social workers. They can often provide you with a list of resources, sometimes at no cost, for receiving the help that you need. For more urgent needs you should contact a local crisis hotline, visit an emergency room, or in the US dial 911 and ask for assistance. Course postings are not monitored for reported psychiatric symptoms in course learners and are not to be used to report such symptoms.
Does the verified certificate mean that I am certified to render help to those with schizophrenia?
No, the verified certificate means that you have successfully completed this course by achieving the course learning objectives. Expertise in treating the disorder is derived through completion of accredited medical, nursing, psychologist or social work training programs with a focus on diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.
Does this course contain anything disturbing?
The subject matter of the course will expose you to how psychotic symptoms, sometimes severe, may be expressed in individuals. Observing these symptoms (enacted by acting students) may be disturbing.
More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center.
