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 may 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.

Summative assessment (LO1-4): Assignment length 2500 words weighted at 100% (all LO's)

Students will have the choice of a range of topics to focus their essay assignment on, each will have a dedicated lecture and the assignment will consider all learning outcomes.

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 and via online discussions.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: interactive lectures as well as additional drop-in/peer support sessions (30 hours).

Guided Independent Study: to include reading, preparation for reading for seminars, assessment preparation, preparation for class-based activities and online and group discussions.

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

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

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

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.

Virtual learning environment

Library access to relevant textbooks and journals

Internet access the relevant websites and online academic databases.

Fox, D., Prilleltensky, I., & Austin, S. (Eds.). (2009). Critical psychology: An introduction. Sage.

Gough, B., McFadden, 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.

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.