Families and parenting
First semester * Clayton
This subject introduces students to psychological theories of the family and parenting as a basis for understanding child and adolescent personality development as well as adult behaviour. Discussion will focus on research examining the relationships among members of functional/dysfunctional families, personality development and social and educational adjustment. Research examining the adjustment difficulties experienced in families with children who have special needs will also be discussed. Therapy techniques for dysfunctional family systems will be introduced, with a view to enhancing self-understanding and interpersonal relationships. Topics will include communicating and relating within the family and educational institutions; parental authority and discipline; adjustment, stress and coping; special needs, special children; family violence, child abuse and neglect. Lectures and films will provide a general overview of current theory and practice. Tutorials will provide opportunity for discussion and student seminars relating to the lecture content.
Assessment
Essay * Case study * Presentation
Recommended texts
Bradshaw J The family Health Communications Inc, 1988
Constantine L L Family paradigms: The practice of theory in family therapy Guilford Press, 1986