Today we spent the first half of class reviewing the previous lectures where abnormaL behaviors had been covered. We picked up with additional points about the DSM-IV-TR. The lecture included points around how important it is to remember the manual is a guide and cannot easily diagnosis and develop treatment plans. Additionally, it was stressed how each patient is unique and although two patients may have the same diagnosis their presenting symptoms may be very different.

We closed the sesion with a look ahead to cover cultural differences and begin reviewing disorders.

This session we completed the Gestalt theory and how it impacts our perception and learning. We began discussing Abnormal psychology and what it means in comparison to normal behavior.

Today we covered the three defining points used in the DSM-IV to aid in making a diagnosis. We also covered external and internal factors. We discussed cultural differences as well as environmental contributors. We tied the material back to the previous theories in development including Erikson and Maslow.

We continued with coverage discussing the Gestalt Theory. We concluded with the topic and moved into Abnormal Psychology. We began with comparing and contrasting what we perceive as normal versus abnormal.

Today we continued with defining abnormal psychology, discussing the DSM-IV and comparing treatment of mental disorders in ancient times to today. Included in the lecture was discussion around the impact of culture and religion and their impact on mental health.

Today we reviewed the research methods material, Abby completed a quiz, and then we finished discussing the Gestalt Theory. We moved into Abnormal Psychology. Topics included defining abnormal, the history of mental disorders, how to qualify a disorder and how Psychiatrists and Psycholoists subscribe to the medical model.

Today we began discussing the Gestalt Learning Theory. Max Wertheimer was introduced along with his four laws of grouping, Similarity, Proximity, Continuation, and Closure. For each of these laws, Abby was presented with an image or two and asked to explain what she was seeing. Based on her answer, we compared and contrasted each to the law.

Today we covered Sensory and Perception Learning Theory. We discussed the five senses and how they relate to psychology and the way we use them to learn. During this session I had Abby use a blind fold and introduced to her five different items for each sense. For example, I had a curry spice, garlic powder, vinegar, basil and thyme for her to look at and name the item based on what she was seeing. I then had her smell each item and she guessed two right - vinegar and garlic. This exercise demonstrated how the senses work together as well as how even though something may appear to look like one thing but in reality it is something totally different.

Today, we continued with the theory on senses and perception. We discussed further how our senses impact our emotions and the way we interpret information. We also discussed how our senses and perception are individual and although two people may see the exact same image they may identify with it differently. We introduced the Gestalt theory and will resume with the topic after spring break.

Today we Skyped. We discussed the project and again, creating a hypothesis. We began discussing sensory, perception and how they relate to learning as well as Psychology. We covered all five senses, how each one contributes to our learning and their changes with the development stages. We discussed in depth how perception is unique to each person. Perception is not always as it seems and with psychology especially, the idea is always to question what one sees.