PSY5401 · Psychopathology 1

Overview

In this unit, you will be equipped with a solid foundation in comprehending and assessing psychopathology in the adult population. You will learn to navigate the diagnostic criteria for a diverse range of adult psychopathological disorders. This knowledge will enable you to competently and ethically assess and differentially diagnose these conditions. Additionally, you will critically explore the aetiological factors contributing to adult psychopathology, integrating biological, psychological, and environmental perspectives for a holistic understanding. Ethical decision-making is at the core of our curriculum, ensuring you can navigate complex moral dilemmas inherent in clinical practice with integrity and professionalism. You'll also gain proficiency in utilising evidence-based assessment tools, honing your skills to effectively evaluate psychopathological symptoms and assess functional impairments in adult clients. Furthermore, you will learn to formulate evidence-based treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of adult clients, drawing upon current research and therapeutic modalities. Lastly, our emphasis on effective communication and interdisciplinary collaboration will prepare you to work seamlessly with other professionals in the field, providing holistic care to adults facing psychopathological challenges. This unit promises a rich learning experience, enabling you to become a well-rounded and compassionate clinician in the realm of adult psychopathology.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

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

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Apply diagnostic criteria for a range of adult psychopathological disorders to accurate assessment and differential diagnosis.
2. Investigate and critically evaluate the multifaceted aetiological factors contributing to adult psychopathology, integrating biological, psychological, and environmental perspectives.
3. Apply ethical principles and guidelines in clinical practice and demonstrate the ability to make morally sound decisions when dealing with complex ethical dilemmas related to adult psychopathological cases.
4. Formulate evidence-based assessment plan to effectively evaluate the psychopathological symptoms and functional impairments experienced by adults.
5. Formulate evidence-based treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of adult clients, integrating current research findings and therapeutic modalities for various psychopathological conditions.
6. Develop effective communication and collaboration skills to facilitate integrated care for adult clients with psychopathological concerns.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising: Contact hours for students: 3-hr in-person session per week Additional requirements for students: Independent study including individual/ group assignment and self-learning to make up the required minimum hours during the semester.

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