This course will integrate clinical psychology and cognitive neuroscience to explore the biological underpinnings of mental illness. We will adopt a systems-level approach, examining the relationship between function and dysfunction of specific brain circuits and networks and mental health disorders. For example, the brain’s reward system has been linked to diagnoses such as addiction, disordered eating, depression, and psychosis. What does this common neural foundation indicate and how has this discovery advanced treatment options? Throughout the course, we will draw on findings from traditional and cutting-edge methodologies that have produced critical insights and key breakthroughs. As we explore these topics, we will discuss how these research findings inform mental health treatment and potentially complement discussions around important societal issues including racial bias and criminal responsibility.
Throughout the course, besides having a chance to improve your writing and communication skills, you should be able to:
Describe the brain’s reward system and its involvement in psychopathology;
Relate symptoms in psychopathology to specific brain mechanisms and regions;
Describe methodology used to relate mental illness symptoms to brain mechanisms;
Responsibly translate scientific research to the general population.
- Enseignant·e: Mayron Pereira Picolo Ribeiro