For centuries, people have believed myths and misconceptions about psychological disorders and the people who suffer from them. Modern psychological research has allowed us to correct some of these misconceptions. As a result, many people have changed their ideas about mental and emotional disorders. Think of a common misconception you have observed in society or in your personal experience. How could information from research be used to change people’s views of psychological disorders? How can this information help us to better understand people who experience mental and emotional disorders?

For centuries, people have believed myths and misconceptions about psychological disorders and the people who suffer from them. Modern psychological research has allowed us to correct some of these misconceptions. As a result, many people have changed their ideas about mental and emotional disorders. Think of a common misconception you have observed in society or in your personal experience. How could information from research be used to change people’s views of psychological disorders? How can this information help us to better understand people who experience mental and emotional disorders?

In a multi-paragraph essay, describe the misconception you observed and discuss how information from research could be used to change this misconception about psychological disorders and the people who suffer from them. Be sure to include details from class materials, readings, and research on psychological disorders to support your discussion.
Revision Goal 1: Understand the purpose, audience, and task.
1. Read the writing assignment. Underline the topic (what your essay will be about) and the purpose (why you are writing).
2. Read your essay. To clearly address your audience, identify places in your writing where you have included or need to include relevant details to make your ideas clearer and more convincing for the audience.
Example:
Topic: Write an essay about a person whom you look up to and admire.
I wrote about my Aunt Sophie because I look up to her, and she has taught me important life lessons.
Purpose: Explain why you chose this person, what qualities you admire about this person, and how this person has influenced you.
I explained why I chose Aunt Sophie, the qualities I admire about her, and how she has influenced me. I will use details such as examples and stories to explain these.
Audience: General readers who do not know my aunt.
I included important details about my aunt’s life and my admiration for her that I think will be convincing and informative for community leaders.
Revision Goal 2: State the controlling idea of your essay.
1. Include a thesis statement in your introductory paragraph. The thesis statement should communicate the controlling idea of your essay and your point of view or argument.
2. If you did not include a thesis, write one now in the introduction to your essay.
Example:
Before Revision: My Aunt Sophie plays the piano beautifully. Every Sunday when I visit her, I sit beside her on the piano stool while she plays classical music.
A student’s strategy: I have written details about my aunt, but I did not write a sentence that states my point. I need to add one now.
After Revision: I admire my Aunt Sophie because she is a talented musician, a great music teacher, and a wonderful cook.
This student’s reflection on the revision: I added a sentence that clearly states what I will prove: I admire my Aunt Sophie for three reasons.

Last Completed Projects