Psychology of Trauma

This course introduces students to the field of psychological trauma. It includes a brief history of the field, as well as current approaches to understanding trauma from cognitive, neuropsychological, developmental, and clinical viewpoints. It explores topics such as childhood trauma, adult sexual assault, domestic violence, acts of war, combat related disorders, and natural disasters. Films and selected readings are used to explore these topics. A disclaimer is communicated at the beginning of class concerning possible accidental trauma to students because of the nature of the materials covered. A list of area providers of psychological services is distributed in class.