PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY

Course Description

While psychotherapy has been proven to be effective as a treatment modality, the literature suggests that combination therapies entailing psychotherapy and pharmacology produce the most effective results for clients. Therefore, this knowledge base provides the foundation for having a course in psychopharmacology. The course starts with an introduction to different classes of psychoactive drugs, the biochemical mechanisms and transmitters by which the different drugs exert their influence and the brain areas where these effects takes place. Pharmacological, neurophysiological and behavioral research procedures are reviewed. The course discusses the effects of different classes of psychoactive drugs on cognitive processes and behavior. Sensitization, habituation, addiction, abuse and withdrawal symptoms are explained.

PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

No course outcomes have been defined yet.

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Preston, J. & Johnson, J. (2016). Clinical Psychopharmacology Made Ridiculously Simple. 8th Ed. Medmaster, Inc. ISBN-13: 978-1935660057

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 Explain(4) the basic concepts realted to the field to psychopharmacology SOLO 4
2. L01 Describe the basic principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and explain how they influence drug effects on behavior and cognition. SOLO 4
3. L02 Combine(3) the relationships of brain, behavior and drugs SOLO 3
4. L02 Explain the mechanisms of action of major classes of psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers) and relate them to underlying neurobiological systems. SOLO 4
5. L03 Summarize the indications, common side effects, and risks of major psychotropic medications across common psychological disorders. SOLO 3
6. L04 Apply critical thinking skills to analyze recent empirical literature in psychopharmacology and participate in structured discussions evaluating the strengths, limitations, and implications of research findings. SOLO 4
7. L05 Discuss ethical, cultural, and societal issues related to psychopharmacological treatment, including access, stigma, and over/under-prescription. SOLO 4

Program Outcomes

1. P01 Demonstrate an understanding of the core subfields of psychology — including but not limited to clinical, developmental, cognitive, social, and biological/neuroscientific psychology — and their interconnections with other scientific disciplines, critically evaluating the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry in psychology.
2. P02 Apply scientific methods, research techniques, measurement and psychometric principles (e.g., reliability, validity, scale development/adaptation), and quantitative/statistical reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena, recognizing methodological strengths, limitations, common reasoning fallacies, and the flaws of pseudoscience.
3. P03 Employ logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to analyze psychological concepts, evaluate theories (including their historical and philosophical development), synthesize information, and solve complex problems related to cognition and behavior.
4. P04 Integrate psychological theories and findings into practical settings (e.g., business, policy, clinical/counseling contexts, and daily life), applying foundational applied skills such as interviewing, observation, and case formulation, drawing meaningful conclusions to inform individual, organizational, and societal practices.
5. P05 Describe key ethical principles in psychological research and practice, critically applying these principles to dilemmas across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
6. P06 Recognize how individual differences (e.g., beliefs, values, backgrounds) impact behavior and relationships; use psychological knowledge to prevent or resolve intercultural and interpersonal conflicts and promote inclusive, respectful interactions.
7. P07 Exhibit self-regulation and self-awareness, demonstrating a commitment to psychological well-being, effective time management, constructive incorporation of feedback, and ongoing personal and professional development.
8. P08 Collaborate effectively in diverse teams, demonstrating responsibility, bias awareness, conflict resolution skills, and leadership in achieving collective goals.
9. P09 Communicate psychological knowledge clearly and appropriately for academic, professional, and public audiences using inclusive language, both in written and oral formats, and by accurately summarizing and presenting research findings.
10. P10 Use information and communication technologies (including AI and digital media) responsibly and effectively for research, collaboration, and the dissemination of psychological knowledge.
11. P11 Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability in response to evolving psychological knowledge and societal needs, engaging with global perspectives and demonstrating intercultural awareness.

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