James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

PY5003 - Adult Psychopathology

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

Subject Description

This subject reviews and critiques the assessment, diagnosis, formulation and aetiology of psychopathology in adults. Students are assumed to have a basic knowledge of psychopathology on which to develop advanced skills using Diagnostic systems. It is approached from a biopsychosocial perspective, including a critical review of current research and findings from biological, psychological, psychopharmacological, social and cultural knowledge domains. The subject aims to develop working knowledge of complex psychopathology required, to work in an interprofessional team in medical/clinical/health/Indigenous/cross cultural settings. Theory, research, and practical skills related to assessment, diagnosis, evaluation and management of mental disorders will be critiqued and applied in a problem-based learning methodology.

Learning Outcomes

• analyse and apply research skills, findings, and theoretical perspectives related to complex cases such as cultural conceptualisations involving physical and mental health
• discriminate, evaluate and explain symptoms using diagnostic systems, criteria, and the strengths and weaknesses of such systems
• explain and demonstrate assessment methods in psychopathology
• apply skills in diagnosis, conceptualization and formulation of psychological disorders in applied exercises
• formulate main treatment options for various psychopathologies, including psychopharmacological interventions

Subject Assessment

• Non-Invigilated > Assignments - (25%)
• Group skills demonstration and study guide - (25%)
• Case study: diagnosis and formulation - (50%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  PY5301 PY5302 PY5303 PY5304 PY5305 PY6301 PY6302 PY6303

Availabilities