Written by a practicing social worker, PSYCHOPATHOLOGY views mental disorders through the strengths perspective and applies a competency-based assessment model for understanding the subject matter. Featuring detailed, realistic vignettes of clinical practice situations, the text offers strategies for building on clients' strengths and resilience, and insights about social workers' role in working with the mentally ill. Part of the Brooks/Cole Empowerment Series, the up-to-date fourth edition summarizes the current state of knowledge about mental disorders, including a thorough integration of the DSM-V. It also integrates the core competencies and recommended practice behaviors outlined in the 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).