7 two hour, whole group sessions, comprising 1 two hour introductory lecture, 5 two hour topic-related, multiple perspective lectures and 1 two hour structured debate with questions put to a panel of lecturers representing different approaches.
5 fortnightly one hour seminars. 4 are topic/issue related and 1 is assessment related
37 hours independent student work directly related to assessment
94 hours independent study comprising 35 hours directed reading, 20 hours preparation for seminars and structured debates, 20 hours guided activity and 19 hours reflection on work.

Blackboard via the Internet

The broad topics of interest covered in this module are relationships in the family, friendship, intimate sexual relationships and problems in relationships. A wide range of different psychological approaches (for instance, biological, evolutionary, developmental, cognitivist, social constructionist) will be explored, in order to promote debate about how personal relationships are researched and understood. In this way the module will develop students' abilities to compare and contrast models of human behaviour which may complement or conflict with one another.

Baumeister, R.F. (ed) (2001) Social Psychology and Human Sexuality: Essential Readings. Hove: Psychology Press.
Dragon, W. And Duck, S. (2005). Understanding Research in Personal Relationships: A Text with Readings. London: Sage Publications.
Harmon-Jones, E. and Winkielmann, P. (eds.) (2007) Social Neuroscience: Integrating Biological and Psychological Explanations of Social Behavior. London: Guildford Press
Miell, D. and Dallos, R. (eds) (1996) Social Interaction and Personal Relationships. Buckingham: Open University Press.
Vangelisti, A.L., Reis, H.T and Fitzpatrick, M.A. (eds.) (2004) Stability and Change in Relationships. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
Bradbury, T.N. & Karney, B.R. (2010) Intimate Relationships. Norton: New York
Duck, S. (2010) Rethinking Relationships. Sage: London

Summative assessment
2000 word essay, contributing 100% of the overall module mark. In this essay students will explain and analyse a case study. The essay will comprise a 2000 word analysis. This will assess learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3.

Formative learning
Students will be provided with formative learning during a seminar in which they will discuss and analyse relationships described in written examples of relationship difficulties. They will get peer and tutor verbal feedback. Students will also be given opportunities for discussion in the fortnightly seminars and participation in debates.

Be registered on any Psychology Award