Dr. Jayson J. Spas

Research Methods: Applied (Clinical)

• This upper-level, capstone course in research methods is designed to advance students' knowledge about research methodology, design and statistical analyses. Students propose an original project; collect, enter and analyze data; interpret results; write-up conclusions; and provide feedback to classmates through a peer-review process toward preparing an original manuscript. Students also have the option of presenting their research at the annual RIC Psychology Research Symposium or regional conferences (e.g., NEPA).

Abnormal Psychology

• This upper-level course provides an advanced study of psychopathology and covers the major categories of psychiatric disorders classified in the DSM-V. This course includes nosology, differential diagnosis and evidence-based treatment(s). Special attention is paid to societal perceptions, misperceptions and stigma about mental health as well as issues of cultural diversity. In particular, this course emphasizes how biases (e.g., Eurocentric, androcentric, etc.) affect assessment, diagnosis and treatment to enhance students’ knowledge of diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, self-awareness and sensitivity to the relevant issues related to behavioral health and systems of care.      

Psychological Testing

• This upper-level course is designed to advance students' knowledge about the theoretical and practical applications of psychological assessment. As such, this course incorporates statistics, research methodology, biases and other relevant factors to the process of making a determination about an individual's health, neuropsychological, cognitive, occupational and/or interpersonal functioning. There is an emphasis on standardization, norm-referenced tests as well as less standardized methods of assessment (e.g., projective measures, testing the limits, etc.). In addition, students are introduced to the wide range of testing purposes (e.g., qualifying for disability, forensic, etc.).

Psychology of Human Diversity

• This upper-level course examines the meaning of difference, in a relationship to personal identity, and how these differences are culturally and socially constructed. The course aims to have students think critically about the complex issues involved and challenge their culture-bound ways of interacting with individuals and groups that are different from their own. Factors related to human diversity (e.g., race, gender, socioeconomic class, sexual orientation, abled, etc.) are presented, as is a review of the historical and contemporary effects of discrimination and methods of reducing intergroup conflict. 

Community Psychology

• This upper-level course introduces students to and engages them in the field of community psychology. There is an emphasis on understanding and appreciating the ways in which systems (i.e., individuals, families, culture) are interrelated and deeply embedded with one another with a particular focus on how these dynamics affect individual’s and community’s health. The aim of this course is to demonstrate how community psychology and its methods bring about change. Students also complete an original action project utilizing the citizen participation research model to raise critical awareness and make a difference in the community.