Special Topic Course on Autism

PSYC 491:  Advanced Special Topics-Psychology (CRN: 12825)

Instructor: Sarah Macoun, Ph.D., R.Psych.

Mondays and Thursdays 8:30-9:50, COR A128

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: from causes to interventions:  Autism Spectrum Disorders are neurodevelopmental disorders, first evident in early childhood and persistent across the lifespan.  Within the past two decades there has been an increase in identification of individuals with ASD, awareness and debate around ASD, and research into this complex spectrum disorder.  This course will provide students with an introduction to ASD framed within a broad biopsychosocial perspective.   We will examine historical understandings of ASD through to contemporary thinking in the field.  We will explore key features of ASD and prominent theoretical perspectives regarding its etiology, including environmental risk factors, genetics, and pathophysiology.   Additionally, we will review clinical assessment of ASD and intervention approaches.  This course is designed to provide an overview of current research and practice in the field of ASD and should appeal to students who have an interest in child clinical psychology, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neuropsychology.​