This module will focus on the role and contributions of psychological research to understanding experiences of key clinical mental health conditions, focusing on scientific approaches to understanding the spectrum of mental health experiences. The module will also consider the importance of clinical psychological research for developing adequately targeted evidence-based psychological therapies which aim to improve functioning for individuals living with severe mental health conditions. Students taking this module will be able to critically evaluate the contributions of psychological science-based research to understanding the experience of common mental health conditions.

Literature Review (100%, 3000 words)
Students will conduct a Literature Review that examines psychological theory and research which underpins current understanding of mental health related experiences covered in this module. This review will focus on either one specific category of disorder (e.g., ‘trauma and stress responses’, ‘depressive disorders’) or one specific diagnosis (e.g., ‘dysthymia’) or a relevant debate related to these categories (e.g., the traditional model of personality disorder versus the alternative model). Students will explain the literature and apply a critical understanding to produce their own informed conclusions. Students can use either a systematic or unstructured approach; and students will review the quality of the articles being assessed (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3).

Students will be provided with formative feedback on a review protocol, which they will produce. This feedback and this protocol will serve as a guidance for the summative assessment. In addition, optional drop-in sessions will be held before the session.

Taught sessions, in the form of lectures, interactive workshops and student-led groups, will be delivered during which
an understanding of core clinical psychology theory will be developed. Students will be expected to engage in discussions, debates, practical exercises (e.g., formulations, presentations), and literature evaluations (e.g., the assessment).

Students will also be supported to conduct their literature review assessment through interactive workshops which will include details on different types of review and the associated processes, from identifying a review question to synthesising evidence. The module leader will provide students with tailored formative feedback within these workshops in addition to written feedback on a protocol document.

Taught sessions will be supported by independent learning which will include extended reading, preparation for taught sessions and completing assessment relating activities. Students will also use the virtual learning environment, Blackboard, to engage in discussion forums, formative quizzes (optional) and other relevant activities.

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of clinical psychological science in explaining the role of biopsychosocial factors in mental health syndromes.
Knowledge & Understanding, Application, Learning.

2. Demonstrate a critical awareness and evaluation of current research in clinical psychological science and communicate conclusions clearly.
Analysis, Enquiry, Knowledge & Understanding, Communication.

3. Critically appraise clinical research and literature in order to develop an understanding of clinical experiences, and to frame that experience in a scientist-practitioner model.
Enquiry, Application, Problem-Solving.

Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment. Web-based databases to review current relevant literature in electronic database. Internet access. Library. Resource rooms and supervision space. Guest speakers, including those with lived experience.

Boland, A., Cherry, G., & Dickson, R. (Eds.). (2017). Doing a systematic review: A student's guide. Sage Publications.

Bentall, R. (2003). Madness Explained: Psychosis and human nature. Penguin.

Craighead, W. E., Miklowitz, D. J. & Craighead, L. W. (2017). Psychopathology: History, diagnosis, and empirical foundations (3rd ed.). John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cromby, J., Harper, D., & Reavey, P. (2013). Psychology, mental health, and distress. Palgrave.

Davey, G. (2014). Psychopathology: Research, assessment and treatment in clinical psychology (2nd ed.). John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

This module will focus on the role and contributions of psychological research to understanding experiences of key clinical mental health conditions, focusing on scientific approaches to understanding the spectrum of mental health experiences. Throughout this module, students will explore, discuss, debate, and develop an understanding of the lived experiences of severe mental health distress and how to improve symptomology and/or quality of life for these individuals. You will begin to develop your knowledge of clinical psychology, from research to practice.