Developmental Psychopathology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Evaluate the strengths and limitations of the developmental psychopathology approach, which seeks to understand patterns of adaptation and maladaptation across the lifespan.
• Identify the major mental disorders that affect infants, children and adolescents and critically discuss their classification and assessment.
• Discuss how current clinical practice is informed by theory in developmental psychology.
• Discuss current approaches to understanding the aetiology and maintenance of these disorders.

In discussing theoretical perspectives, there will be an emphasis on the dynamic interplay between genetic (and epigenetic), psychological, social, cognitive, emotional, and cultural influences. The importance of early experiences and the complexities of risk processes and protective factors will be addressed. The module will cover a range of typical disorders of childhood and adolescence (eg Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Anxiety) and will also discuss less common problems including Attachment related disorders and behavioural patterns following early deprivation. Issues relating to assessment and research methods will be critically discussed.

Teaching and learning methods

The initial sessions will be led by the instructors introducing the class to the main themes and issues in developmental psychopathology. In subsequent weeks, the sessions will divide into two parts. In the first part of the session the instructor will give a general introduction to a specific topic (e.g., ADHD, autism, etc.). In the second part of the session, students will present and lead discussion on key research papers linked to this topic. The course aims to encourage student participation and active learning.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Lecture outlines. Lectures are intended to provide a basic introduction to each topic and should be supplemented with independent research into topics of interest. See lecture outlines for specific readings and suggested articles

Journals. Journals in the library (and available on-line) will enable you to look at the most recent research in the study of developmental psychopathology. These include: • Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology • Journal of Child Psychology & Psychiatry • Development and Psychopathology • Child Development • Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry • Developmental Psychology.

Textbooks

Kerig, P K; Ludlow, A; Wenar, C. (2012). Developmental Psychopathology: From Infancy through Adolescence. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Assessment strategy

Students will be assessed on the basis of an individual poster (29%), a final assessment (70%) and research participation (1%).

Students should sign up through Psychobook to take part in psychological experiments and receive credits for research participation.

Summative

Summative assessment description

Referral

Referral assessment description

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External