PSYC06013 2022 Adult Mental Health: A Psychological Perspective

Critically discuss the evolution of understanding of mental illness and the the impact of this knowleddge and understanding on the treatment and services provided (Domain 1.6, 1.23, 2.3, 2.9, 5.1, 5.4, 5.7, 5.9).

Classify and describe the main psychological disorders of adult functioning, aetiology of these disorders and current treatment protocols (Domain 1.2, 1.5, 1.23, 2.9, 2.17, 5.1, 5.4, 5.5, 5.7, 5.9). 

Explain the psychological research methods used when studying mental health (Domain 3.1, 5.1).

Critically examine diagnostic and assessment methods used and the challenges posed (e.g. cultural sensitivity)( Domain  3.6, 5.5).

The students will be taught in lecture and will also be taught in tutorial format.  The tutorials will give space to the students to explore concepts in more depth.

The students have two assessments.  Assessment one is a presentation (50%) on the delivery of psychiatric care in the students' home locality from historical times to current practices.

Assessment two is an end of year final exam.  This is open book and consists of the student answering two of four questions.

This module’s assessment allows for assessment of CORU Standards of Proficiency as follows:

100% examination:  Domain 1.2, 1.5, 1.6, 1.23, 2.3, 2.9, 2.17, 3.1, 3.6, 5.1, 5.4, 5.5, 5.7, 5.9.)

The student can repeat the exam at the next sitting.

The students can repeat presentation at end of semester

Historical overview of the evolution of the understanding of mental health.  How this understanding influenced services and treatment from ancient times to the present day.  A critical examination of the link between understanding and dehumanisation, discrimination and prejudice towards people with mental health difficulties.

A thorough understanding of current psychological paradigms (cognitive, behavioural etc).  a critical examination of diagnostic systems, benefits, and inherent weaknesses.  An understanding of the parameters of good assessment (standardisation, norms, validity, etc).  An understanding of psychological research methods.

The main disorders of adult psychological functioning will be explored (anxiety, mood, substance-related disorders, schizophrenia, personality, body dysmorphic, etc).  Aetiology, symptoms, treatments, research on treatment efficacy, etc will be explored.  A diathesis-stress paradigm will be employed to aid understanding of the multi-faceted nature of mental health  (Genetics, family, socio-economic status, employment, social, etc will all be explored and their varying contributions to the development of specific mental health difficulties)