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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2018 - 2019

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 15
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The first part of this module focuses on theory and research relating to abnormal human behaviour, its manifestations and how such behaviours may be diagnosed and treated. The second part of the module examines the main concepts and theories relating to a range of psychological therapies, the skills and competencies developed by therapeutic practitioners and contextual factors that impact on counselling practice.

Learning Outcomes

1. Assess historical as well as current trends in the psychosocial study and treatment of abnormal human behaviour
2. Formulate a systematic framework through which psychological disorders can be examined in detail
3. Evaluate the diagnostic criterion and associated treatments for various psychopathologies
4. Synthesise knowledge of therapeutic approaches and processes utilised, both historically and currently, in counselling and psychotherapeutic practice
5. Appraise the contextual factors that impact on counselling practice
6. Reflect on the skills and competencies needed to deliver effective psychological therapy



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Tutorial15Online Distance Learning tutorials
Online activity60Student-Tutor and Student-Student interaction through online discussion forums and other media
Independent Study300Using self-directed learning resouces, textbooks and other resources
Total Workload: 375

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

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Part 1: Abnormal Psychology

Unit 1: What is Abnormal Psychology?

Unit 2: Contextual factors: Legal, Ethical and Societal Issues

Unit 3: Researching Abnormal Psychology

Unit 4: Psychopathology: Assessment and Diagnosis

Unit 5: Stress, Trauma and Health

Unit 6: Mood Disorders and Suicidality

Unit 7: Panic, Anxiety, and Obsessions

Unit 8: Somatic Symptoms and Dissociative Disorders

Unit 9: Schizophrenia and Psychosis

Unit 10: Eating Disorders

Unit 11: Substance use and Addictive Disorders

Unit 12: Sexual Dysfunctions, Variants, and Abuse

Unit 13: Personality Disorders

Unit 14: Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Childhood and Adolescence)

Unit 15: Neurocognitive Disorders

Unit 16: Psychological Intervention: Outcomes and Issues

Part 2: Psychological Counselling

Unit 17: What are Counselling and Psychotherapy?

Unit 18: Research in Psychological Counselling

Unit 19: The Effective Practice of Psychological Therapy: Foundation Skills and Competencies

Unit 20: Psychodynamic Approaches

Unit 21: Cognitive and Behavioural Approaches

Unit 22: Humanistic Approaches

Unit 23: Emerging Approaches

Unit 24: Psychological Counselling across the lifespan

Unit 25: Counselling in Different Contexts

Unit 26: Ethical and Legal Issues When Practicing Psychological Therapy

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Hooley, J. M., Butcher, J. N., Nock, M. K., and Mineka, S.: 2017, Abnormal Psychology, 17th Ed., Pearson Education, Essex,
  • Corey, G.: 2016, Theory and Practice of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 10th Ed., Brooks & Cole, Boston,
  • Nelson-Jones, R.: 2012, Introduction to Counselling Skills: Texts and Activities, 4th Ed., Sage,
Other Resources

None
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