Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description This module explores the role of psychosocial supports in promoting health and wellbeing from childhood through older age. Students will examine key theories that underpin psychosocial practice and consider how such supports are delivered across healthcare and community settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding how social, psychological, and environmental factors interact with health and illness experiences throughout the life course. The module highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-informed decision making, and advocacy in supporting individuals and families facing challenges such as chronic illness and disability. Students will also be introduced to practical approaches such as motivational interviewing and person-centred communication that enhance supportive relationships in care contexts. These topics will be covered each week in a 2-hour lecture. By the end of the module, students will be able to critically discuss the theoretical frameworks, ethical considerations, and practical applications that guide psychosocial work in contemporary health and social care. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Critically evaluate psychosocial theories and their application to health, illness, and equity across the lifespan 2. Analyse how social, psychological, cultural, and structural factors shape psychosocial needs in contexts such as disability, chronic disease, and palliative care 3. Appraise the role of interdisciplinary teams, advocacy, and policy in delivering psychosocial supports, with attention to health equity and social justice. 4. Examine the human experience of psychosocial challenges, including grief, stigma, and marginalisation, from strengths-based and person-centred viewpoints 5. Evaluate the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions by appraising research evidence, ethical considerations, and implementation challenges in real-world practice | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Psychosocial supports, theory, and influences Interdisciplinary work and collaborative practice Palliative care and end-of-life support Advocacy, decision-making, and evidence-based practice Psychosocial supports and disability Grief and bereavement across the lifespan Psychosocial influences in chronic disease Psychosocial interventions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books: None Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||