Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This core unit will provide an introduction into the adolescence through to the adult phase of life, concepts of mental illness and the impact of one on the other. Topics will include adolescent psychiatry, parenthood and mental illness, mid-life and late life issues. Phenomenology will be covered in detail with several sessions devoted to disorders of thought and perception. The practice of adult psychiatry in special settings such as primary and community care, hospital in-patient and forensic institutions will also be examined.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should:

1. have a clear understanding of the signs and symptoms of many adult psychiatric disorders;
2. be able to manage these disorders;
3. better understand the issues of adulthood as a life phase cycle.

1. Knowledge - this unit aims to combine theoretical perspectives on some of the main physiological functions of life with teaching about clinical disease states, when some functions are impaired. In this way, the student will be expected to acquire knowledge about common psychiatric disorders of adulthood and their theoretical underpinnings.
2. Skills - the course will provide skills in the assessment , diagnosis and management of several common psychiatric illnesses in adults. Successful candidates should also be able to develop skills in integrating theoretical knowledge with the recognition and treatment of clinical disorders.
3. Attitude - the course will attempt to influence the attitudes of those enrolled with regard to the problems of adulthood and the social contexts in which common mental illnesses arise.

Assessment

One short answer examination paper (100%)

Chief examiner(s)

Dr D Felman

Contact hours

Approximately 3.5 hours per week attending lectures.

Prerequisites

First year units of the Master of Psychological Medicine