SER 212 : Special Topics in Mental Health

This is an introductory course consisting of a specialized lecture series presented by Human Services practitioners. The course is designed to develop the technical competence and the philosophical perspective needed for successful employment in the mental health and retardation field. It examines the field through a sociological perspective focusing on the history of treatment models and the experience of individuals in society up through contemporary times. Emphasis is based on environmental arrangements and teaching strategies that enhance a person's skills and enable an individual to function to the fullest potential. Pre or co-requisite: PSY 101, SOC 101, SER 291, or permission of the program director. Three lecture hours per week.
  1. Provide participants with a theoretical base of knowledge necessary to work in human services.
  2. Explore one’s own attitudes and beliefs which contribute to understanding individuals with neurological, emotional behavioral, and intellectual disorders.
  3. Provide participants with highly specialized information necessary to function effectively as human service workers.
  4. Provide participants with the technical competencies and/or certifications needed for employment in the human service field.
  5. Foster the principle of normalization as the pervading philosophy in programs for the mentally ill, mentally retarded, or disabled and to educate participants in its implementation.
  6. Increase participant’s awareness, understanding and knowledge of other races, genders, cultures, and people of handicapped status.
  7. Address the sexual and ethnic bias in the social services field in an attempt to reduce this bias in the students.
8. Give participants the tools and skills necessary to find, obtain, and maintain a satisfactory position in the field of human services.

Overview

Program

Credits

3

Degrees/Certificates That Require Course