Human Behavior & Psychopathology:

This course combines discussion of the basic sciences concerning human behavior with the pathogenesis, clinical features and treatment of mental disorders. The semester-long course uses a range of educational techniques (small-group teaching, patient interviews, lectures, computer media and objective-criterion examinations) to permit a flexible approach to mastery of the course material. The course examines human psychosocial development, explores the biopsychosocial underpinnings of behavior, and provides an introduction to the clinical features, causes and treatment of mental disorders. While mastering this content, students may develop their first skills in clinical interviewing and examining patients, understanding their own and others’ reactions to illness, and other aspects of the physician’s professional role.