The Psychology of Diagnosing Superheroes and Villains
In this class, we'll learn what a psychological disorder is, and the elements of various psychological disorders that can be illustrated in different Superhero and Villain characters.
Melissa Snyder, M.Ed., LPCC
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(517)
What's included
1 live meeting
35 mins in-class hoursAssessment
Informal assessment will take place throughout the lesson by asking students if they have questions or comments throughout lessons. There will also be opportunities to answer poll questions in the chat box.Class Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
Beginner Level
This class is ideal for students who have an interest in psychology and psychological disorders. Have you ever wondered why Anakin Skywalker became Darth Vader? Or why the Winter Soldier has nightmares and can't stop reliving his past? We'll answer these questions and more in this class. No prior psychology experience is needed, but students should be familiar with the superhero/villain characters that will be referenced. We'll look at gifs, but no movie clips will be viewed in this class. I use slides, gifs and chat box polls to enhance learning and encourage participation. While participation is always welcomed, I assure learners they will never be called on, so that they can relax and learn the information. This is an educational, fact-based course, and not a counseling or therapy group. The class will have three components: I. What is a psychological disorder II. What disorders do the Incredible Hulk, Anakin Skywalker, Winter Soldier, Captain America, Dr. Strange and Princess Azula illustrate III. What are the basic elements of the disorders of the Superhero characters, as outlined by the DSM 5 (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) I have a structured, yet humor-filled teaching style, designed to keep student's interest, allow for discussion, and help learner's feel comfortable.
Learning Goals
1] Learners will be able to define psychological disorder
2] Learners will be able to identify psychological disorders illustrated by six Superhero characters
3] Learners will be able to identify at least 2 elements of each psychological disorder, as outlined by the DSM 5 (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Parents know best if their child will more comfortable with them by their side. The content of this course doesn't require a parent, but the nature/personality of the specific learner may.
Some of these superheroes are in movies that are for mature learners and need parental guidance.
Supply List
Paper/pen for note taking. There will be a handout that outlines that information covered in the lesson. It can be uploaded in the classroom, and used to follow along or take notes. Learners can preview YouTube clips of their choosing or the ones I've selected to refresh their memories on the superhero characters. There will be no videos viewed in the class.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined July, 2020
4.9
517reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Education from Kent State University
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with M.Ed. in Community counseling and a B.A. in Sociology. I am licensed to diagnose mental health disorders, though not specifically for Superhero characters. :)Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
35 min
Completed by 47 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
2-6 learners per class
