PSYC13-312: Psychopathology

Description

This subject develops knowledge of the major psychopathological disorders experienced by children, adolescents and adults. For each disorder the following topics are addressed: aetiology, characteristic symptoms, diagnostic features and a synopsis of evidence based treatment. Predominant paradigms for understanding psychopathology are covered with particular emphasis on the biopsychosocial approach. Ethical issues regarding the applied practice of psychology are introduced with reference to the APS "Code of Ethics" and the "National Practice Standards for the Mental Health Workforce". This subject introduces the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders psychiatric classification system, and students apply and evaluate this system using a case study approach.

Subject details

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings and historical trends in abnormal psychology,
2. Describe, apply and evaluate the different research methods used by psychologists,
3. Respect and use critical and creative thinking, sceptical enquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behaviour and mental processes,
4. Evaluate psychologists behaviour in psychological research and other professional contexts in relation to the APS Code of Ethics and the complimentary Ethical Guidelines, as well as the Australian National Practice Standards for the Mental Health Workforce,
5. Communicate effectively in a variety of formats and in a variety of contexts,
6. Understand and apply psychological principles to personal and social issues.

Prerequisites

Pre-requisite(s): Nil
Recommended Pre/Co-requisites: PSYC11-100 or PSYC11-101

Subject outlines

• September 2018 [Standard]
• September 2017 [Standard]

Subject dates