Graduate Prerequisites: (SSWHB720) Or permission of department chair. - This course uses a developmental psychopathological model to explore complex psychological disturbances in children, adolescents, and families with a focus on the urban family experience. It addresses multiple research and theoretical perspectives that promote a way of understanding 'normal' and 'pathological' child and adolescent behaviors that change over time in the context of their genetic make- up, biological processes, interpersonal relationships, culture, and available community resources and support. In this course, developmental, systemic, psychodynamic, neurobiological and behavioral theoretical perspectives inform students' understanding of children and adolescents' adaptive and maladaptive patterns of behavior, which evolve over time in the context of their complex developmental histories and socio-cultural relational experiences. The course promotes the importance of assessing in children and families both the historical and present risks for disturbed behavioral development and the historical and present protective factors that promote healthy and resilient behavioral development.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.