Journal of Thematic Instruction
Abstract
Undergraduate psychopathology (abnormal psychology) courses traditionally emphasize case vignettes of individuals with psychiatric disorders to illustrate etiology, nosology, and treatment. While pedagogically useful, these depictions can inadvertently provoke distress in students, potentially impeding engagement and learning. To address this dilemma while continuing to center the same learning outcomes, I formulated a course structure which embedded some course topics in superhero-related material with the express intent to create psychological distance between potentially distressing topics and the learners themselves. This commentary provides background for the course, evidenced-based rationale for specific pedagogical choices alongside topical material recommendations, and ends with personal reflections.
Recommended Citation
Dabbs, C. (2025). Pow, Bam, Snikt: Using Superheroes to Teach Mental Health. Journal of Thematic Instruction, 1(1). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/jti/vol1/iss1/3
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Curriculum and Instruction Commons