PSYC9009 Psychological Disorders and Psychopharmacology

Associate Professor Ryan Balzan

2020

4.5

1 x 5-day seminar once-only
1 x 12-hour independent study once-only

1 Admission into MPSC-Master of Psychology (Clinical)
1a Admission into PHDCP-Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)
1b Admission into MPPSC-Master of Professional Psychology
2 1 of PSYC9007, PSYC9210
3 1 of PSYC9035, PSYC9036, PSYC9212
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b) and 2 and 3)

This topic will examine a range of issues concerned with the aetiology and classification of adult psychopathology. The range of aetiological factors to be considered during the course is broad and will include genetic, biochemical, environmental and cognitive causes. A particular focus will be on the DSM-5 diagnostic system often used by mental health professionals to diagnose emotional and behavioural disorders, although the utility of diagnosis in clinical practice will be approached in a critical fashion. The second part of the topic is concerned with the range of psychopharmacological treatments often used to treat adult psychopathology. A knowledge of psychopharmacology is considered essential in clinical psychology and is included in this topic because of the link with biological models of human behaviour.

The primary aim of the topic is to examine a range of issues concerning the classification of adult psychopathology as well as a basic understanding of psychopharmacology.

an understanding of the causes of common forms of psychological problems
an understanding of the DSM-5 system of classification
a critical appraisal of DSM-5
conceptual issues in abnormal psychology such as the role of life events, interpersonal factors and cognitive factors
the names, classification and uses of common pyschopharmacological agents
the benefits and problems associated with the use of medication
ability to form diagnostic judgements related to the DSM-5 classification
ability to interact with other professionals in connection with use of medication
ability to interpret information from clients and other sources about medication

Key dates and timetable

Timetable details for 2020 are no longer published.

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