About This Volume

Welcome to “Abnormal Psychology: Intersections.” The aim of this textbook is to offer an in-depth exploration of topics in abnormal psychology. There are many well-versed books on abnormal psychology but I wrote this book because there are significant gaps in the research and application of multidimensionality and sociocultural mechanisms in human psychopathology. I believe that this volume is a significant step toward addressing these gaps in the academic landscape.

The primary emphasis of this textbook centers on the scientific understanding of diverse conceptualization, expression, and treatment of mental disorders and distress, as follows:

Conceptualization: This textbook explores factors that influence the development and maintenance of maladaptive behaviors and mental disorders. First and foremost, the focus is on scientific theories and research for understanding the etiology of mental disorders. However, the text also examines the history and value of sociocultural conceptualizations of mental health and distress.

Expression: This textbook outlines the symptomatology of mental disorders based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). This textbook integrates DSM-5 criteria for diagnosing various mental disorders. In addition, clinical case studies provide vivid examples of mental disorders and distress. With respect to sociocultural differences, the textbook also identifies divergent expressions of symptoms.

Treatment: This textbook emphasizes evidence-based treatments (EBTs) known to treat mental disorders effectively. That is, the book discusses the most effective treatments known to science. The textbook also explores traditional practices from diverse communities have helped people suffering significant mental distress for generations.

The basic layout of this textbook is designed to optimize student learning. This textbook sets out to accomplish the following student learning goals:

1. Recognize dimensions for defining abnormality/mental distress
2. Appreciate varied historical and cultural understandings of mental distress
3. Articulate the strengths and differences of past and current diagnostic classification systems
4. Recognize current scientific research methods and findings on human psychopathology
5. Differentiate between major DSM diagnostic categories, disorders, symptoms, and criteria
6. Describe scientific theories and explanations for the development and maintenance of mental disorders
7. Identify common clinical assessment techniques and treatment approaches for mental disorders

The pedagogical strategy for this textbook includes the use of novel learning and assessment techniques. These techniques are derived from Bloom’s revised taxonomy for classifying student learning and assessment (Create, Evaluate, Analyze, Apply, Understand, and Remember). This textbook extends Bloom’s principles by integrating a strong foundation for student learning and assessment that includes emphasis on students’ engaging, reflecting, analyzing, and formulating ideas based on the material. Specific techniques to promote these learning strategies involve the following methods:

Interactive Exercises: This textbook employs innovative instructional activities and learning exercises. These methods are based on the notion that interactivity engages students to learn more effectively.

Collaborative Peer Learning: Students have opportunities to learn from each other in instructional activities that promote collaboration, peer teaching, and teamwork.

Data Collection and Analysis: Thorough the use of polls, students analyze and interpret results for better understanding the material and completing class activities.

Clinical Cases: Composite clinical cases provide examples of various DSM-5 mental disorders. Students experience vivid examples through video and animation that bring abstract concepts to life.

Communication Skills Activities: Studies engage in various critical thinking exercises that involve oral and written communication. These exercises are designed to enhance communication skills.

Immediate Feedback: Through the use of digital instructional activities and assessment, students get immediate and timely feedback to their textbook activities and exercises.

At times, the general community may not fully comprehend the bases for abnormal behavior. As a result, individuals may feel threatened or mock the atypical behavior of others. Thus, the objective of this textbook is to dispel myths about abnormal behavior and foster compassion for individuals who suffer mental disorders. Ultimately, I hope that this work produces greater reflection, consideration, and empathy for the sufferers of mental health disorders.

Respectfully,

Gerardo M. González, PhD