The course will also deal with how to make appropriate programmatic recommendations, write reports, provide assistance, and how to share findings with parents and professionals. The theory and research relating the contribution of the environmental, physiological, and genetic factors to the development and persistence of abnormal behavior. Behavior problems are considered from the point of view of genetic abnormalities, teratogens, deviations in normal development, effects of social and family stressors, and failure to develop appropriate social skills. The major theories and research related to the development of deviant behavior in children are examined within this framework. Current issues facing school psychologists and the impact of family dynamics on the child's learning and behaviors are examined.
Attention is paid to the legal aspects and ethics of being a school psychologist.
This course considers consultation with parents, school systems, and the community. Laws governing education will be reviewed. The application of research-based interventions to the social and behavioral problems of children and adolescents in the school setting, and mental health issues in the schools will be discussed. This course has a practicum of shadowing educators, including school psychologist, working with special needs children. This practicum provides students an opportunity for students to apply learning from content courses to elementary and secondary students who are failing to find academic success in school.