Clinical Psychology and Pathopsychology in Healthcare (VPUPK_429)
About Study Course
Objective
The aim is to give students a systematic understanding of mental health in the context of healthcare. The course introduces the development of the mental health care system in the world and Latvia, its structure, operational principles and the importance of interprofessional cooperation. During the study process, students acquire basic knowledge of the classification of mental disorders in accordance with SSK-11 (ICD-11), their distribution, causes, development mechanisms, clinical manifestations, as well as basic principles of treatment and rehabilitation. The course provides insight into the main directions of clinical psychology, pathopsychology. The course raises awareness of the potential for psychological research and assistance in cases of mental disorders in the healthcare environment.
Prerequisites
Personality psychology, developmental psychology.
Learning outcomes
1.After completing the course, the student shall:
Z1. Describes how mental health is viewed in healthcare (basic concepts, system, specialist roles).
Z2. Explains why classifications and terminology (SSK-11) are used.
Z3. Describes the biopsychosocial approach as a theoretical framework for explaining mental difficulties.
Z4. Name and explain key areas of pathopsychology (perception, thinking, emotion, etc.) and typical examples.
1.After completing the course, the student shall:
P1. Analyses a simple case description highlighting the relevant characteristics (symptoms/reactions, resources, context).
P2. Associates the signs of a case with a theoretical explanation (biopsychosocial framework) without making clinical diagnoses.
P3. Formulate an academic summary of possible directions of assistance and the need for referral (to which specialist and why).
P4. Use correct terminology and argue their conclusions with course literature/lecture materials.
1.After completing the course, the student shall:
K1. Adheres to academic and professional boundaries: distinguishes the case study analysis from professional clinical evaluation/practice.
K2. Demonstrate respectful, non-stigmatizing attitudes and ethical thinking by analyzing sensitive clinical examples.
