Mental health conditions are characterised by a clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation, or behaviour. WHO estimates that 1 in every 8 people in the world lives with a mental health condition. This module is designed to be an introduction to the psychology of mental health. We will cover areas including mood, stress, anxiety, eating, and personality disorders, as well as different therapeutic approaches. We will explore outdated beliefs, modern classification systems, and a range of explanations for the causes of mental health conditions.
Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching period
A
Autumn Term 2024-25
Module aims
To introduce students to the main disorders associated with abnormal psychology including personality disorders, Sexual and Gender Identity disorders and anxiety disorders
To discuss how disorders are assessed and diagnosed
To gain an understanding of the research methods used in studying abnormal behaviour
To be able to consider the legal and ethical issues.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate an understanding of the key areas of abnormal psychology
Appreciate the need for assessment and diagnosis
Evaluate the research methods used in studying abnormal psychology.
Indicative assessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Module feedback
The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.
The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.
Indicative reading
Atkinson, R. L., Atkinson, R. C., Smith, E. E., Bem, D. J. (1993). Introduction to Psychology (11th edition). Harcourt Brace Jovanovich College, London.
Gross, R. (2010). Psychology; The science of mind and behaviour (6th edition)