Three Major Psychological Disorders
(Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Multiple Personalities)

INTRODUCTION

"More than 100 million Americans have a close family member who suffers from a major mental illness,' and 1500 million people around the world suffer. It is estimated that by the year 2020, major depression will be main cause of disability and the second leading cause of death in the world. In other words, there is an overwhelming possibility that a major psychological disorder will touch each and every one of us.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

What is a humane way to deal with people who suffer from a psychological disorder?

ESSENTIAL LEARNING

Students will understand the nature of three major psychological disorders, viewing causes, symptoms, and the various methods of treatment that have historically been used and that currently are used. Since the rate of mental illness in our society is ever increasing, it seems significant that students gain awareness one of these disorders will most certainly touch their lives.

TIME ALLOCATION:

Three weeks

TECHNOLOGY

Teachers will need access to computers for Internet research. The initial tour is a self-guided tour of web sites dealing with specific psychological disorders. BSCO offers some excellent material.