PSYD 895O Special Topics: Public Policy, Advocacy and Social Change

The course is designed to focus on the analysis, formulation and advocacy of public policy within the context of public administration, community organizing and the policy making process. It will identify methods for understanding the political process as a system and looking at evaluation techniques to address complex policy issues. There will be an examination on ways psychologists, behavioral healthcare delivery systems, advocacy groups, and community organizations can work as advocates with local, state, tribal, and federal government to address issues of social change. It provides an overview governmental structure, process, and policies at all levels. The course will look at effective methods of communication and advocacy for mental health professionals to challenge policy, promote concerns and address the needs within the mental health field. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 1.5 semester hours