#1 - Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal psychologists focus on the origins and constructs of mental illness and look at unusual patterns of
behaviors, emotions and thoughts. They are involved in assessment, diagnoses and clinical treatment of mental
disorders.

“When most people think about abnormal behavior, they think in terms of the extremes, of unusual and shocking
examples with a sensational allure,” said Dr. Nanette Mongelluzzo, an adjunct instructor of social sciences
programs.

But, she added, “abnormal simply means 'away from the normal.' Culture, belief systems, family or origin, religion
and other societal norms affect the interpretation of normal and abnormal. Abnormal psychology is a specialization
within the field of psychology, and it's based on the study of normal psychology, normal adjustment, societal
interactions, group interactions, roles that are expected, personal maturity and so on. Most psychotherapists and
clinical mental health professionals would agree that abnormal psychology studies and addresses deviations from the
norm.”

Pursuing a master's in psychology can help position you for success in a variety of career opportunities.
Mongelluzzo said that, with an advanced degree, career choices include:

 clinical social worker

 clinical or research psychologist
 criminal profiler
 licensed professional counselor
 marriage and family therapist
 developmental/school psychologist
 forensic psychologist

Clinical psychologists are also employed or serve as advisors in many areas of government, prison systems, the
military, educational institutions and on teams with other professionals working for organizations as diverse as sports,
media and international human rights organizations.