PSY6164 · Developmental Neuropsychology

Overview

You are introduced to issues relevant to the neuropsychological assessment and management of children and adolescents. The development of the central nervous system, with emphasis on developmental stages, cognitive and emotional development, neurodevelopmental abnormalities and theories associated with recovery of function, will be reviewed. You examine the neuropsychological sequelae of common acquired cerebral disorders, such as traumatic brain injury, epilepsy and childhood cancers. The sequelae of congenital and developmental disorders, such as specific learning disorder, will also be explored. Psychosocial and treatment issues associated with these disorders are also be addressed together with guidelines for paediatric clinical practice. You will also become familiar with the use of appropriate paediatric neuropsychology assessment tools and learn the skills required to obtain a comprehensive history from parents, teachers, hospital case notes and other relevant information sources. The importance of conveying neuropsychological findings and recommendations in a clear and interpretable manner for non-psychology professionals, such as teachers and carers, is also an area of focus.

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

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

Learning outcomes

1. Analyse the main stages of central nervous system development and the developmental trajectories of major cognitive, emotional, and behavioral domains.
2. Explain the impact that various neurodevelopmental disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders, and acquired brain injuries may have on the development of cognitive abilities.
3. Administer appropriately selected paediatric neuropsychological tests and evaluate the results within the context of developmental and clinical factors.
4. Generate clinical formulations informed by case histories, collateral data, and medical records, and effectively communicate findings in audience-appropriate reports.
5. Develop tailored recommendations from paediatric neuropsychological findings and effectively disseminate them to diverse audiences.

Workload

40 hrs of educator directed sessions over the semester One hour per week of key post-class activities including, creating a tip sheet, contributing to paediatric test kit, producing profile of paediatric test.

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