TRAUMA PSYCHOLOGY

Course Description

Trauma psychology provides a comprehensive exploration of the field of psychological trauma. In today’s world, experiencing some form of trauma appears to be inevitable as the topic of trauma is widely covered in the media. Various frameworks explaining trauma are introduced: cognitive, neurobiological, clinical, and socio-cultural frameworks. The nature of trauma (such as sexual abuse, combat, and natural disasters), how trauma affects individuals and systems, grief reactions, and traumatic stress are discussed. In addition, students will be able to identify different types of traumas and the psychological components associated with it. Finally, alternative models of coping will also be discussed.

TRAUMA PSYCHOLOGY

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

1. 01 1- To learn and define the concepts and terminology of trauma psychology
2. 02 2- Learn the prevalence rates for the major forms of traumatic stressors and identify and describe the emotional, cognitive, and physical sequelae of traumatic stressors.
3. 03 3- Identify the principal DSM-V diagnoses following exposure to traumatic stressors and to be competent with therapeutic approaches in trauma psychology

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Yehuda, R. (1998). Trauma Psychology.
2. 02 Gold, S. N. (2017). APA Handbook of Trauma Psychology: Foundations in Knowledge. APA.
3. 03 Yehuda, R. (1998). Trauma Psychology. APA
4. 04 Yehuda, R. (2002). Treating Trauma Survivors with PTSD. APA

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 1- To recognize (2) and define (2) the concepts and terminology of trauma psychology SOLO 2
2. L02 2- To describe (3) the prevalence rates for the major forms of traumatic stressors SOLO 3
3. L03 3- To differentiate (3) the emotional, cognitive, and physical sequelae of traumatic stressors. SOLO 3
4. L04 4- To describe (3) the principal DSM-5 diagnoses following exposure to traumatic stressors and to differentiate (3) therapeutic approaches in trauma psychology SOLO 3

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.

Po-Lo Matrix