PSYC1320

Meets MN Transfer Curriculum Goal Area 5: History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences. This course provides an overview of various theoretical perspectives and relevant research on the psychology of trauma. Students will examine concepts of traumatic and acute stress through a multidimensional lens, including historical and cultural perspectives. This course is designed to facilitate students' knowledge and insight into the impact of trauma, as well as the recovery process, at individual, family, and community levels. Using empirical and clinical research, case histories, and personal narratives, topics such as the human stress response, coping and resilience, dissociation, memory and trauma, collateral damage will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to examine current trends and literature on trauma, related disorders, treatment, and community prevention. This course is of particular interest for people who are pursuing a field where they'll be working with traumatized individuals or who want to understand more about the topic.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate an understanding about research and the scientific methods used in the study of psychology.
• Examine current research in the field of acute stress and trauma.
• Describe cultural and historical perspectives regarding traumatic events and individual, family, and community responses to trauma.
• Explain the historical and cultural changes to trauma treatment.
• Describe current psychological disorders and compare treatment perspectives related to trauma.
• Compare the different theoretical approaches in psychology used to understand trauma, and the effects traumatic events have on people.
• Examine society's response to trauma and traumatic events.
• Discuss and develop solutions for community awareness and prevention strategies.