Psychopathology and personality

The aim of this unit is to develop general professional psychological competencies in the assessment of psychopathology and personality. You will undertake advanced exploration and analysis of the psychological assessment process, including scholarly consideration and debate of quantitative and qualitative approaches to assessing psychopathology, as well as personality across the lifespan. Theories and methods of assessment, as well as associated issues of validity and reliability, cultural and ethical considerations, and linguistic factors will be considered within the contexts of client perspectives. You will acquire skills in the administration, scoring and interpretation of pertinent psychological tests, the integration of multiple sources of assessment data, and appropriate report writing. You will also develop skills for constructive critical appraisal and using clinical judgement in assessment and diagnosis of disabilities, psychopathology, neurodiversity, and human strengths (positive psychology). Case conceptualisation and intervention planning skills will also be developed.