James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

PY5003:03

Adult Psychopathology

Townsville

Prerequisites: Admission to MPsych or permission of Course Coordinator

39 hours flexible delivery. First semester.

Available to MPsych or DPsych students or with permission of course coordinator.

Staff: Dr W Hman.

This subject addresses the aetiology, presentation, classification and treatment of psychopathology in adults. The role that physical health may play in the occurrence of some psychological disorders will also be considered, as will the effects of different neuropharmacological forms of treatment. The subject assumes a basic knowledge of psychopathology and deals, at an advanced level, with the recognition, explanation, and treatment of psychopathology in clients.

Learning Objectives:

  1. to understand the assessment and diagnosis of adult psychopathology;
  2. to understand the primary forms of psychopathology;
  3. to understand treatment options of the major forms of psychopathology;
  4. to understand benefits and disadvantages of psychopharmacology;
  5. to understand interaction between physical health and psychological health.

Assessment by written review (2,000 words) on theoretical perspectives (40%); case review (1,500 words) (40%); examination (20%).