Rationale
This module builds on the central concepts, theories, current issues and research evidence introduced in the level 4 and level 5 modules exploring the main approaches in psychology.
Abnormal Psychology seeks to explain unusual or maladaptive behaviour through the examination of rigorous, research-based subject matter. The concept of ‘abnormal’ can be problematic given negative connotations with ‘not normal’ and this will be a key area of debate: the essence of normality and the appropriateness of labels which may have important ramifications for how people suffering psychopathology are in some way perceived as ‘not normal’ or as inferior members of society.
This module will invite students to participate in a process of discovery and critically consider a variety of approaches and perspectives to explore the latest theories and perspectives on the origins of psychopathology and the effectiveness of specific treatments. This will be achieved through the adoption of a topic based approach which will consider historical and scientific considerations, current paradigms in psychopathology and therapy, issues in the classification of abnormal behaviour, and discussion of specific disorders.