Level 3 Abnormal Psychology Diploma

Level 3 Abnormal Psychology Diploma Course Content

Unit 1 – Defining Mental Illness

The first unit addresses definitions and diagnoses of abnormal behaviour, encouraging students to challenge assumptions and critically evaluate various criteria. Students will develop skills in interpreting models of abnormal behaviour, considering biases and risk factors associated with certain behaviours.

Unit 2 – What is Abnormal Psychology?

This unit explores the definitions of normal and abnormal behaviour from historical, philosophical, and political perspectives. It examines theoretical definitions, labelling theory, and the roles and responsibilities of those managing mental illness and abnormal behaviour.

Unit 3 – The Psychoanalytic Approach

This unit introduces students to the psychoanalytic paradigm developed by Sigmund Freud, focusing on his belief that unconscious conflicts from childhood influence adult behaviour. Students will gain insights into Freud’s impact on abnormal psychology and develop a better understanding of how conflicts shape individual actions.

Unit 4 – Carl Jung and Post-Freudians

Focusing on Carl Jung’s Analytical Psychology, this unit explores his ideas on wholeness and the integration of the psyche, contrasting Freud’s theories. Students will study Jung’s symbols and archetypes, which he believed to be at the root of mental disturbances.

Unit 5 – Biological, Behaviourist, and Humanistic Approaches

This unit examines three major approaches to treating mental illness, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each and evaluating their relevance today.

Unit 6 – Schizophrenia

This unit investigates schizophrenia, covering the causes, prevalence rates, and treatment options. The role of drug therapy is reviewed, along with psychosocial factors influencing the disorder.

Unit 7 – Depression

This unit examines the factors contributing to depression, its prevalence across age groups, available treatments, and its impact on quality of life. It also explores positive aspects of the disorder and potential for change.

Unit 8 – Women and Madness

Students will explore theories suggesting that women have historically been seen as unable to cope with certain demands. This unit considers how views and treatments of women in mental health have evolved and examines statistics supporting these theories.

Unit 9 – The Anti-Psychiatry Approach

Introducing the Anti-Psychiatry movement, this unit focuses on R. D. Laing’s work, which challenged traditional psychiatric methods and highlighted issues such as family dynamics and societal judgments of mental illness.

Unit 10 – Methods and Ethics

This final unit covers the importance of research in abnormal psychology, ethical considerations, and the rights of vulnerable individuals and those detained under the Mental Health Act. Students will also examine the role of expert witnesses and the rights of individuals considered criminally insane.