Module overview
The module will provide an introduction to adult psychopathology, to present the psychological and biological models that have been developed to explain a variety of psychological disorders, and to examine both the empirical foundation of these modules and the treatments based upon them such as cognitive therapy.
Each session will focus on a new disorder and will typically discuss: i) diagnosis and classification; ii) epidemiology; iii) theoretical approaches to understanding the aetiology and maintenance of the disorder(s) (with particular reference to psychological models); iv) empirical evaluations of basic processes proposed by theoretical models; and v) theory-driven treatments and their efficacy.
While the majority of the sessions will be given by the module convenor, there will be guest lectures from clinical psychologists working in the NHS, and experts on particular topics (e.g. anxiety).
Linked modules
Pre-requisite: PSYC1016
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Critically evaluate psychological and biological theories with reference to the relevant evidence base
- Identify the major mental disorders suffered by adults and understand how they are classified
- Understand current theoretical approaches to understanding the aetiology and maintenance of these disorders
- Appreciate translation of clinical theory and empirical evaluation into clinical practice and treatment development
Syllabus
The following topics will be covered: History of psychopathology and evaluation of classification systems, Depression, Psychosis, Anxiety disorders / OCD, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction, Personality Disorders, Tic disorders and Tinnitus / Dementia.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Weekly double lectures and supplementary tutorial sessions.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 124 |
| Teaching | 26 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Davey, G. (2014). Psychopathology. BPS Blackwell.
Kring, A.M., Johnson, S.L., Davison, G.C., & Neale, J.M. (2013). Abnormal Psychology. Wiley.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written assignment | 66% |
| Clinical Case Reports | 33% |
| Research Participation | 1% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External