H331 Course Description

This course has two aims: (1) to understand how processes of risk and resilience develop in social contexts; and (2) to explore how interventions based on this developmental information can enhance competence. The course will emphasize how developmental processes of risk and resilience are affected by social contexts. Contexts to be studied range from small group, organizational, and community contexts up to the level of policy and culture. The course will review strategies and systems of prevention and intervention that target change in these social contexts, and thereby reduce harm or increase wellness. Students will draw on multidisciplinary content from the fields of human development, education, developmental and community psychology, psychiatry, public health, sociology, and public policy. While the course will center on developmental theories relevant to a contextual approach to risk, resilience, and competence, it will also provide some examples of strategies for prevention, intervention and social change. Students will be required to design and propose an original intervention/prevention program.