Students

PSYC987 – Child and Adult Psychopathology 1

2018 – S1 Day

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor
Melissa Norberg
melissa.norberg@mq.edu.au
Contact via melissa.norberg@mq.edu.au
C3A 714
by appt
Credit points Credit points
4
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Admission to MClinPsych
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description
This unit aims to develop students’ conceptual and diagnostic understanding of the mental disorders contained within the DSM-5’s categories of bipolar and related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-and stressor-related disorders, and the obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Importantly, this unit will discuss the evidence (or lack of evidence) for these disorders and their existing theoretical models in light of the history of the DSM and its alternatives. Moreover, this unit will take a lifespan approach, by exploring potential variations in mental disorders in childhood, adulthood, and later life. Lastly, this unit will provide an overview of the biological bases of and pharmacology for the anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, and for schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.
  • Explain the history of the DSM, its strengths and weaknesses, and alternative classification models.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the neuroscience and pharmacology of common mental disorders.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Abstract Selection 5% No see PSYN841 Unit Guide
Exam: Short-answer 15% Yes Week 4
Exam: Multiple-choice 20% Yes Week 5
Case Report: Mood Disorder 30% Yes Week 7
Case Report: Anxiety Disorder 30% Yes Week 13

Abstract Selection

Due: see PSYN841 Unit Guide
Weighting: 5%

Retrieve 5 PubMed Abstracts abstracts detailing a pharmacological treatment for a disorder. For each abstract, students must list the drug and its mechanism of action and the disorder its used to treat.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate understanding of the neuroscience and pharmacology of common mental disorders.

Exam: Short-answer

Due: Week 4
Weighting: 15%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)

Four short-answer questions. Students need to demonstrate their knowledge about the DSM and alternative classification models, appropriate behaviour as a clinical psychologist, and how to tell the difference between science and pseudoscience.

This exam is a hurdle requirement of this unit (see the definition of a hurdle requirement at http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/schedule_2.html). The assessment allows demonstration of 'fitness to practice' as a clinical psychologist, which is essential prior to the first placement in the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic. Consistent with the Assessment Policy of the University, students who make a serious attempt at the Exam, but fail to meet the required standards, will be provided with one additional opportunity to pass the exam or similar exam. Failure of the second attempt will result in a Fail grade for the entire unit (even if the raw mark for the Unit is over 50) and this, in turn, will result in a delay in starting the Clinic placement or further placements. The highest possible grade achievable on the second attempt is a PASS.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Explain the history of the DSM, its strengths and weaknesses, and alternative classification models.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Exam: Multiple-choice

Due: Week 5
Weighting: 20%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)

40 multiple-choice questions. This exam will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge about the biological bases and pharmacology of the anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders.

This exam is a hurdle requirement of this unit (see the definition of a hurdle requirement at http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/schedule_2.html). The assessment allows demonstration of 'fitness to practice' as a clinical psychologist, which is essential prior to the first placement in the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic. Consistent with the Assessment Policy of the University, students who make a serious attempt at the Exam, but fail to meet the required standards, will be provided with one additional opportunity to pass the exam or similar exam. Failure of the second attempt will result in a Fail grade for the entire unit (even if the raw mark for the Unit is over 50) and this, in turn, will result in a delay in starting the Clinic placement or further placements. The highest possible grade achievable on the second attempt is a PASS.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate understanding of the neuroscience and pharmacology of common mental disorders.

Case Report: Mood Disorder

Due: Week 7
Weighting: 30%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)

Students will be provided with a case and they will have to establish a diagnosis(es) and provide support for that diagnosis(es). They will also need to describe a theoretical model for that disorder, provide scientific evidence for that model, and describe how the patient’s symptoms fit that model. (1500 words)

This case report is a hurdle requirement of this unit (see the definition of a hurdle requirement at http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/schedule_2.html). The assessment allows demonstration of 'fitness to practice' as a clinical psychologist, which is essential prior to the first placement in the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic. Consistent with the Assessment Policy of the University, students who make a serious attempt at the Exam, but fail to meet the required standards, will be provided with one additional opportunity to pass the exam or similar exam. Failure of the second attempt will result in a Fail grade for the entire unit (even if the raw mark for the Unit is over 50) and this, in turn, will result in a delay in starting the Clinic placement or further placements. The highest possible grade achievable on the second attempt is a PASS.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

Due: Week 13
Weighting: 30%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)

Students will be provided with a case and they will have to establish a diagnosis(es) and provide support for that diagnosis(es). They will also need to describe a theoretical model for that disorder, provide scientific evidence for that model, and describe how the patient’s symptoms fit that model. (1500 words)

This case report is a hurdle requirement of this unit (see the definition of a hurdle requirement at http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/schedule_2.html). The assessment allows demonstration of 'fitness to practice' as a clinical psychologist, which is essential prior to the first placement in the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic. Consistent with the Assessment Policy of the University, students who make a serious attempt at the Exam, but fail to meet the required standards, will be provided with one additional opportunity to pass the exam or similar exam. Failure of the second attempt will result in a Fail grade for the entire unit (even if the raw mark for the Unit is over 50) and this, in turn, will result in a delay in starting the Clinic placement or further placements. The highest possible grade achievable on the second attempt is a PASS.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Delivery and Resources

1.   American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.)

2.   Leonard, BE (2003). Fundamentals of Psychopharmacology. (Third Edition). Wiley Press.

3.   Weekly, 2-hr seminars. Students are required to participate in the seminars, and in order to do so, must read the relevant DSM-5 sections and assigned journal articles prior to presenting to the seminar. 

4. A variety of journal articles (see iLearn).

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/. 

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative

Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Assessment tasks

  • Exam: Short-answer
  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills

Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.
  • Explain the history of the DSM, its strengths and weaknesses, and alternative classification models.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the neuroscience and pharmacology of common mental disorders.

Assessment tasks

  • Abstract Selection
  • Exam: Short-answer
  • Exam: Multiple-choice
  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Recognise and differentially diagnose DSM disorders, taking into account an individual’s context.
  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.

Assessment tasks

  • Abstract Selection
  • Exam: Short-answer
  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability

Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Explain key demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the main disorders, along with the main psychological theories underlying their aetiology and maintenance, the evidence supporting them, and risk and protective factors.
  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.

Assessment tasks

  • Abstract Selection
  • Exam: Short-answer
  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

PG - Effective Communication

Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Explain the history of the DSM, its strengths and weaknesses, and alternative classification models.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Assessment tasks

  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens

Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Choose a theoretical model for understanding a disorder and for guiding its treatment based on scientific evidence.
  • Act as a scientist-practitioner: i.e., a clinician who integrates scientific findings into their practice in order to make informed mental health care decisions for their patients.

Assessment tasks

  • Case Report: Mood Disorder
  • Case Report: Anxiety Disorder

Changes since First Published

Date Description
28/02/2018 In the first draft, the mood disorders case report was written "due Week 8," but it is actually due Week 7. This deadline has now been updated.