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NU7412 Deconstructing Theoretical Perspectives on Human Distress (10 ECTS)

Learning Outcomes

Following completion of this module the student should be able to:

  • MLO1-01: critically appraise the key schools of thought and areas of research concerning the nature of, and responses to human distress
  • MLO1-02: critique the historical, political sociological and cultural factors that have shaped mental health in Ireland
  • MLO1-03: evaluate contemporary perspectives on human distress with particular reference to the emergence of recovery and the service user movement in Ireland
  • MLO1-04: evaluate mental health policy and legalisation in the context of a human rights framework
  • MLO1-05: apply the spectrum of theoretical perspectives when understanding and responding to experiences such as sadness, absence of pleasure, hopelessness, anxiety and unusual thoughts & perceptions
  • MLO1-06: work from a well-informed holistic understanding of the nature of human mental health and distress, making use of evidence from various perspectives
  • MLO1-07: draw from the various theoretical perspectives when appraising and supporting people who are experiencing human distress

Module Learning Aims & Rationale

This module seeks to enable students to appraise and apply a broad spectrum of theoretical perspectives on human distress.

The aim of this module is to provide and facilitate a learning milieu which immerses students in contemporary research and theory and stimulates a review of various perspectives on mental health and the experience of human distress. More than anything it is intended as a unique opportunity for the students to debate, question, challenge, and reconsider their own fundamental understanding of mental health and distress.