Foundations of Adult Mental Health module (PY40029)
Develop your understanding of adult mental health, from the history of mental health care to the diagnosis, theory, and treatment of common psychological disorders
Adult mental health is a fast-changing field, and this module gives you the critical and theoretical foundations to engage with it at Honours level. You'll examine the history of mental health care and then explore a range of psychological disorders in depth, developing your ability to evaluate research and apply evidence critically.
Topics covered may include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma, eating disorders, learning disabilities, addictions, and personality disorders. You'll also develop your understanding of diagnosis, therapeutic approaches and interventions, and the importance of culture and professional ethics in mental health practice. The module also includes guidance on careers in mental health professions.
Teaching is delivered through face-to-face lectures with guided seminar classes and student-led discussions. Preparatory reading is given before classes, and you'll be expected to carry out substantial independent study. Formative exercises are used to increase engagement with the material and facilitate in-class discussion.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- Gain detailed knowledge of core theories and debates in adult mental health
- Develop critical understanding of several common mental health disorders
- Evaluate relevant research and apply evidence critically within this area
- Develop an understanding of professional ethics in mental health practice
- Begin to develop a reflective, scientist-practitioner approach
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate detailed knowledge of core theories and debates in adult mental health
- Demonstrate critical understanding of several common mental health disorders
- Identify, read, and evaluate relevant research within this area
- Express knowledge effectively in writing and discussion
- Show familiarity with professional ethics in mental health practice
Assignments / assessments
Coursework assignment (40%)
- One written assignment
Invigilated online exam (60%)
- A two-hour on-campus exam delivered online
- Students answer two equally-weighted questions from a pool of five or six
Teaching methods / timetable
- Face-to-face lectures
- Guided seminar classes with student-led discussions
- Formative exercises to support engagement and in-class discussion
Courses
This module is available on the following courses: