PSY4032 · Psychopathology and clinical science

Overview

This unit develops your understanding of how human behaviour is classified as ‘pathological’ through examination of the historical influences and the theory of the aetiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders. Adopting a biopsychosocial-cultural perspective across the lifespan, this unit will provide broad and comprehensive knowledge of both scientific and professional aspects of psychopathology.

Areas of study: Psychology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe key biological, psychological and socio-cultural perspectives on the cause, presentation, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders across the lifespan.
2. Critically evaluate theoretical perspectives and current research findings to advance knowledge of the causes, diagnosis, management and outcomes of psychological disorders.
3. Apply best practice approaches to the assessment and treatment of psychological disorders, accounting for a range of contexts and diverse populations.
4. Effectively use a range of digital media and online collaboration tools, in both individual and group contexts, for evidence-based discussion of psychological case studies.
5. Apply knowledge of ethical and legislative frameworks to ethical concerns in mental health practice and research
6. Critically reflect on your beliefs and attitudes towards psychological disorders to identify personal development opportunities.

Workload

You should expect to spend a minimum of 20 hours per week on this unit to achieve the learning outcomes. This time will cover: a) video lecture materials; b) synchronous & asynchronous discussion; c) synchronous web-based 'class-time' for skills-based activities; d) weekly readings; e) weekly skills-based assessment tasks; and f) content-based assessment, including revision and formative assessment. Each week there will be a one hour ‘Live class’, facilitated by your instructor. This will be followed by a live office hour, where you can ask questions and chat with your classmates and instructor about anything to do with the unit or psychology in general. There is also a 1 hour live chat with the Senior Instructor that you can attend each week for additional discussion and guidance.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.