Psychology for Social Work

Overview

The purpose of this module is to provide a basic introduction to students of the main theoretical approaches in psychology and to provide an overview of the contribution made by the discipline of psychology to our understanding of human development and behaviour. Students will be supported to develop an awareness of the applicability of psychology to the practice of social work in a range of contexts.

Learning Objectives

Successful completion of this module will enable the student to:
a)understand the different psychological theoretical approaches to the study and explanation of human behaviour and development
b)engage with the debates about the main factors influencing human behaviour and development, for example, nature v nurture
c)acquire the skills to relate this knowledge base to social work practice in a meaningful fashion
d)demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on the academic literature

Skills

Students will develop skills in:
a)searching for and reading the academic psychology literature
b)critically discussing and reflecting upon the main psychological concepts and ideas
c)integrating psychological perspectives and approaches into their developing concept of the social work role
d)presenting their learning in both oral and written formats

Assessment

None