Understanding Psychological Disorders
Overview
- Credit value: 15 credits at Level 4
- Convenor: Dr Michael Mallaghan
- Assessment: a 1500-word home essay or case study (60%) and 10-minute presentation (40%)
Module description
In this module we consider the different classifications and definitions of major psychological disorders. We will review the nature and causes of the major forms of mental disorder and examine forms of treatment and their effectiveness. We also examine a range of causal theories for specific disorders and the associated evidence.
Research methods used within this area of psychology, including their relative advantages and disadvantages, will be discussed. We will also look at ethical issues involved when conducting research and when trying to generalise results (for example across cultures).
Indicative syllabus
- History of psychopathology, including definitions and classification
- Researching mental health and well being
- Neurodevelopment disorders (autism and ADHD)
- Mood disorders (including anxiety and depression)
- Bipolar and related disorders
- Psychotic and schizophrenia spectrum disorders
- Feeding and eating disorders
- Substance abuse and addictive disorders
- Critical approaches to classification and diagnosis
Learning objectives
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- discuss issues of description and diagnosis
- describe and comment on the nature and causation of mental disorders
- consider the implications of different approaches to treatment
- understand the development of ideas within this field, and of contemporary approaches and issues
- recognise a range of research methodologies that might be appropriate to the study of psychology (identifying strengths and weaknesses of core methodologies, including qualitative as well as quantitative approaches)
- identify the ethical issues when conducting research in this area (with particular consideration of harm)
- demonstrate an awareness of cultural considerations in the evaluation of theory and research
- illustrate the practical applications of research findings.