Mental Health

Students will during this subject study psychology problems and get knowledge of psychological approaches. The focus will among other things be aimed at mental health, relationship and identity development. All the themes will be presented in light of several perspectives, with the main focus on one selected perspective.

Variations in human mental difficulties will be looked at. One central theme is family functioning within the family, society and cultural perspective.

Material, biological, social, psychological and cultural factors influences for development of mental diseases as well as consequenses.

Knowlegde - students

• have broad knowledge of theories about mental health and different approaches within social work when mental health is a problem.
• have knowledge and understanding of relationship and identity development in context to social surroundings, life quality, physical and psychological health.
• have knowledge of biopsychosocial perspectives on health, addiction and behavioral problems, including the role of social networks and family relations.
• have knowledge of ethical dilemmas and evaluations of mental health.

Skills - students

• can use social work skills based on psychology knowledge, and be able to reflect on own activities and challenges.
• can reflect on psychological theoretical perspectives when people are in challenging life situations at an individual level, group and societal level.
• can discuss challenges about serious behaviour problems and crime among children, adolescents and adults.
• can reflect on ethical dilemmas in vocational practice.

General competency - students:

• can use knowledge in psychology as a base for social work competency in challenging situations.
• can use their knowledge and insight about mental health.
• can discuss political, economical and judicial framework for problem solving within fighting crime, psychiatry, health and addiction work.
• can reflect on ethical aspects in context with services and approaches.

Lectures, group work, student study groups and self-studies will be used.