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Undergraduate Module Descriptors 2012/13

PY214: Abnormal Psychology

Module Title Abnormal Psychology
Module Code PY214
Module Tutor Michelle Huws-Thomas
School Natural and Social Sciences
CAT Points 15
Level of Study 5
Pre-requisites Before taking this module you must pass PY101 or pass PY108
Co-requisites None
Restrictions None
Brief Description This module introduces students to the concept of abnormal behaviour by considering the historical context, classification systems currently in operation, and models of mental disorder. The main classes of mental disorder, as conceptualised by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) IVTR, will be presented in order to provide a broad overview of the diversity of abnormal behaviour in children, adults and older adults. A biopsychosocial approach will be taken in considering the aetiology (causes), consequences and treatment of abnormal psychological states. The module highlights the importance of psychological, social and biological research in contributing to our understanding of mental disorder, and the development of prevention, management and treatment strategies.
Indicative Syllabus 1. Introduction and conceptual issues
2. Classification and Diagnosis of abnormal behaviour
3. Developmental psychopathology
4. Anxiety Disorders
5. Mood/ Affective Disorders
6. Schizophrenia
7. Substance Use Disorders
8. Eating Disorders
9. Sexual Dysfunction and Sexual Disorders
10. Personality Disorders
11. Age Related disorders
12. Social issues and mental health
Learning Outcomes

i. Knowledge and Understanding

By the end of the module students should be able to demonstrate a knowledge of

  • The nature of abnormal behaviour
  • The DSM IVTR classification manual
  • Psychological and social issues surrounding abnormal behaviour

Skills
By the end of the module, students should be able to demonstrate that they can

  • Discuss the concept of normal versus abnormal behaviour
  • Describe the main types of mental disorder under the DSM IVTR system, including the prevalence, theories relating to cause, symptoms and key treatments for each of the main disorders.
  • Discuss the psychological and social issues contributing to and resulting from the occurrence of abnormal behaviour


Learning and Teaching Activities Staff/student contact 16%
Student private study 84%
Methods include lectures, group discussion and videos.
Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide) 001: 50% Coursework: Standard: 2000 words or equivalent
002: 50% Written Exam: End of year, unseen, closed book: 1.50 hours
Special Assessment Requirements None
Indicative Resources

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.

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