Course Information

SW 6500 - DSM Evaluation and Psychopathology

Institution:
Southern Utah University
Subject:
Social Work
Description:
This course explores psychological difficulties throughout the lifespan (i.e., childhood through adulthood). Behavioral, developmental, and ecological perspectives are used in looking at specific problems such as depression, ADHD, autism, and other difficulties. Students explore theoretical perspectives, the use of the DSM, and practical applications. Students in this course are prepared to identify mental disorders and to understand the necessary professional evaluations needed to formulate a DSM-5 diagnosis in a culturally sensitive and ethical manner. Students are sensitized to the risks and benefits of using diagnosis, with an emphasis on minimizing stigma. Throughout this course, students learn about the most common DSM-5 diagnoses and integrate that knowledge with the use of established diagnostic procedures. In developing a "working diagnosis," students learn to consider the differential diagnosis, individualize and capture missing dimensions of an illness (mental status, severity, cultural idioms, and other details) as well as adapt interventions to various ages, races, genders, and cultures. Students learn how to incorporate DSM-5 requirements into a holistic biopsychosocial approach that includes the use of evidence-based assessments to systematically resolve ambiguities in diagnosis and strengthen diagnostic accuracy. Students also practice communicating and coding DSM-5 diagnoses and their supporting evidence to peers. The course uses case materials for direct skill-building. (Fall) [Graded Letter]
Credits:
3.00
Credit Hours:
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Exclusions:
Level:
Instructional Type:
Lecture
Notes:
Additional Information:
Historical Version(s):
Institution Website:
Phone Number:
(435) 586-7700
Regional Accreditation:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Calendar System:
Semester
General Education
  • No items found

The Course Profile information is provided and updated by third parties including the respective institutions. While the institutions are able to update their information at any time, the information is not independently validated, and no party associated with this website can accept responsibility for its accuracy.

Detail Course Description Information on CollegeTransfer.Net

Utah System Of Higher Education

The Utah Transfer Guide is a tool to help you plan your transfer and should be used along with the information you receive from your transfer advisor.

Copyright 2026 by the Utah System of Higher Education