James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

PY5303 - Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan

Subject Description

This subject reviews and synthesises the assessment, diagnosis, formulation and aetiology of mental health disorders across the lifespan. Students will apply their knowledge of mental health disorders to develop advanced skills using diagnostic systems such as DSM and ICD11. Students will develop skills associated with trans-diagnostic processes, comorbidities and cultural bound syndromes. Students will also develop working knowledge of conceptualisations and formulations of mental health disorders distributed across the lifespan and cultural settings. Theory, research, and practical skills related to assessment, diagnosis, evaluation and management of mental health disorders will be analysed and applied in a problem-based learning methodology.

Learning Outcomes

• Expertly communicate with a range of stakeholders, including others within the interprofessional health care team
• Synthesise psychological knowledge to develop effective resources for clinical and peer use
• Analyse and apply research skills, findings and theoretical perspectives related to psychological disorders
• Discriminate, evaluate and explain symptoms using diagnostic systems with consideration of culturally and linguistically diverse populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Apply skills in biospychosocial and cultural formulation to develop appropriate diagnoses and differential diagnoses
• Reflect critically and respectfully on the practice of one's self and others within the interprofessional health care team to develop quality practice and to plan ongoing professional learning

Subject Assessment

• Diagnostic case studies - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Case study analysis - (30%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - Individual
• Part A Client video resource 20%; Part B Written resource 15% - (35%) - Individual

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.

Special Assessment Requirements

Pass requirements: pass every assessment item; attend all scheduled classes; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  PY5001 PY5003 PY5006 PY5007 PY5011 PY5012 PY5013 PY6001 PY6002 PY6003 PY6010 PY6015 PY6201 PY6202 PY6203

Availabilities