The module will consider a number of contemporary socio-political issues at national and global level and will evaluate the contribution of psychological theories, research and practice towards addressing and influencing such issues, including those of oppression and empowerment in society.

The areas/issues may vary from year to year, according to socio-political developments, but will include mental health, poverty, gender/sexuality, war, politics and law, in a variety of contexts such as the workplace, media, education, welfare, or health. The module will address issues of representation, theorisation and research in psychological applications to these areas and will evaluate the ethical and professional consequences and implications thereof, as well the impact of these challenges on professional and discipline development in psychology.

Fox, D., Prilleltensky, I., & Austin, S. (Eds.). (2009). Critical psychology: An introduction. Sage.
Gough, B., McFadyen, M., & McDonald, M., (2013). Critical Social Psychology; an introduction. Palgrave-McMillan.
Parker, I. (Ed.). (2015). Handbook of critical psychology. Routledge.
Nelson, G., & Prilleltensky, I. (2010). Community Psychology: In pursuit of liberation and well-being. Palgrave Macmillan.

Blackboard VLE

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the influence of critical psychological theory and research on contemporary issues of oppression and empowerment (Knowledge and Understanding)

2. Critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data used within critical psychology to make inferences about relevant contemporary issues within social justice (Analysis)

3. Demonstrate an understanding of uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of redeveloping and applying psychological knowledge in constantly changing socio-political contexts (Learning)

4. Apply knowledge and understanding of contemporary critical psychology to devise and sustain arguments for addressing issues of oppression and empowerment in a number of contexts such as the workplace, media, education, welfare, or health (Application)

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (26 hours) 13 x 2 hour/week interactive lectures and seminars Guided Independent Study: (124 hours) 74 hours Preparation of readings for seminars and online discussions 40 hours Preparation for essay 10 hours Participation in online group discussions.

Summative assessment: Assignment length 3000 words weighted at 100% (all LO's)
Students’ choices with regards to the topic they write about and the format they submit their assignment in, i.e. traditional essay, guidance document for practitioners, or other format, will be negotiated and agreed with the module tutor.

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Formative assessment: Students will be given tutor and peer feedback during discussions in seminar sessions, on assignment preparation questions and via online discussion boards.

Be registered on any psychology award

Be registered on any Psychology award.

The module will consider a number of contemporary socio-political issues at national and global level and will evaluate the contribution of psychological theories, research and practice towards addressing and influencing such issues, including those of oppression and empowerment in society.

The areas/issues may vary from year to year, according to socio-political developments, but will include mental health, poverty, gender/sexuality, war, politics and law, in a variety of contexts such as the workplace, media, education, welfare, or health. The module will address issues of representation, theorisation and research in psychological applications to these areas and will evaluate the ethical and professional consequences and implications thereof, as well the impact of these challenges on professional and discipline development in psychology.