Abnormal psychology is the study of mental illness and distress, as well as psychological dysfunction. The aim of this module is to foster a critical appreciation of some key topical issues at a theoretical level in abnormal psychology, as well as how this is applied in the practice of clinical psychology.

Through a series of lectures, students will be introduced to the theoretical perspective on several categories of common mental health disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders. In addition, other topics in abnormal psychology, such as dysfunctional behaviour, will be examined from a range of perspectives, including cognitive, behavioural, and neurological. The focus is on how psychological models, particularly cognitive ones, can aid our understanding of psychological disorders. The course will also examine how the theoretical understanding of disorders translates into practice in clinical settings. Contemporary models of clinical practice and psychotherapeutic intervention will be introduced, including scientist and reflective practitioner models, and formulation and assessment models of clinical psychology. The link between clinical psychology and health care settings will also be explored. In this way we will demonstrate that psychological models have considerable application to clinical practice. This provides a valuable introduction to key issues and concepts that will be experienced in clinical practice, by students who decide to move into clinical work after graduation.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to: 1. Describe the characteristics of commonly occurring mental health disorders 2. Describe theoretical models used in abnormal psychology 3. Critically appraise these models from a theoretical perspective with reference to empirical evidence. 4. Explain major models used in applied clinical psychology 5. Critically appraise the application of theory to practice.

On successful completion of this module, students should be / should be able to: 1. Value the contribution that psychological research and theory make to the understanding of mental health disorders. 2. Appreciate the complexity of psychological distress and the limitations of diagnostic categories. 3. Value the role of clinical psychology in a number of different health care settings.

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The module will be mainly taught in lectures, but several different techniques will be used. In lectures, there will be elements of didactic teaching, activities and interactive group work. Students will examine specific case studies, watch videos and take part in role-play of a clinical interview and explore the interpersonal dynamics of therapy. In addition, learning will take place through guided and independent reading, and formative assessment. Students will give an oral presentation in which they will critically evaluate the research on a given topic. Students will also complete a written exam in which they will they critically reflect on the key topics in abnormal and clinical psychology.

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