This module will analyse and critically evaluate contemporary psychological research to understand issues relating to the role of the family as a context for development. Examples of topics covered include alternative family building (adoption and assisted reproduction), family break up, and step families, and families and health/disability.

Performance on the module will be assessed by an individually produced critical review of recent studies on a specific topic (2,500 words) ( LO's 1, 2, and 3)

Formative Assessment/Feedback:
Formative learning and feedback opportunities will be provided through the submission of a group produced review of recent studies.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (24)
The content of this module will be delivered by 11 x 2 hours interactive lecture/seminar sessions. Each session will begin with a formal lecture where key concepts and theories will be introduced. These will be followed by group discussions and problem-solving activities related to that particular topic. Audio/visual materials will also be used to demonstrate specific issues.
Students will be required to present a summary of a group project demonstrating their ability to draw on appropriate material linking empirical findings to psychological theories of family functioning. Peer and tutor feedback will be given for this activity. There will be also be the opportunity to attend module / assesment support sessions (2 hours)

Guided Independent Study: (126)
60 hours tutor guided reading
40 hours assignment preparation
26 hours group presentation activities

Gopfert, M., (2003) Parental psychiatric disorder: distressed parents and their families Cambridge University Press.
Niven C A (1992) Psychological care for families. Oxford, Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd
Ogden,J (2007) Health Psychology: a textbook (4th edn) Open University Press
White D & Woollet (1992) A `Families: a context for development' Falmer

Be registered on any Psychology Award

Library facilities
PC with internet access