The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.
At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Wednesday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Wednesday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.
The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each week.
A. Questions for weekly discussions and conversations (not part of the required Discussion Board assignment)
These questions can serve as the starting point for your discussions during the week. They are “thought starters,” so that you can explore some ideas associated with the discussion board and unit topics. Answers are not required, and should not be submitted with your required assignment. Answers are not graded.
- Which mood disorder did you find to be the most severe?
- What are the most interesting findings that you have found in this course
- Is addiction ever “cured”?
B. Required Discussion Board assignment.
There are various theories that address the development of personality.
Part 1:
Study the section in your text on personality, and research the Internet and library to learn more about personality theories. For this discussion question, do the following:
- Choose a theory that you think provides the best explanation of how personality develops in an individual.
- Explain how that theory addresses personality development from childhood to adult.
Part 2:
Study the personality disorders discussed in your text. Choose one specific personality disorder to study. Post the following information about the disorder that you have chosen.
Describe the symptoms commonly associated with this disorder according to the DSM-IV. How do the behaviors associated with this disorder differ from similar behaviors considered normal in American culture? Finally, discuss ways in which this disorder is treated. Do not discuss personal experience and do not use a disorder you have or found in your family. Use your own words and reference the text and other Library sources to support your answers. Use appropriate citation and documentation.
Post your answers to the discussion board. Review the posting of at least two students to learn about another theory and disorder. Ask the students for any clarifications necessary.
For assistance with you assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials. Please refer to the following multimedia course material(s):
- Week 5 – Conception through Childhood and Adult
- Week 5 – Normal Psychology
- Week 5 – Normal and Abnormal Behavior
- Week 5 – DSM Disorders and Treatments
Be sure to document your references using APA format.
In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings.
| ITEM | GRADE % |
| Content – covers all points described in the assignment description | 65 |
| Subsequent posts to other students | 25 |
| Grammar, spelling, punctuation, and format are correct and professional.All sources cited using APA | 10 |
