Psychology

Nature and Nurture of Mental Health

Module code: C8896
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

The aim of this module is to introduce you to the research of nature and nurture of mental health, a highly interdisciplinary and fast-moving field. You will learn key principles as well as historical aspects of research of nature and nurture of mental health.

More recent developments in this field will also be explored, focusing on a broad range of mental health phenotypes across the life span. For example, you will have the opportunity to learn about nature and nurture of neurodevelopmental psychopathology (e.g., autism), common mental health problems (e.g., depression, anxiety), and mental ageing (e.g., dementia). Ethical issues related to genetically informative human and animal studies of mental health will also be discussed.

Module learning outcomes

• Systematically understand and appreciate key concepts of nature and nurture research of mental health
• Manage their own learning and determine detailed knowledge at forefront of field
• Critically evaluate genetically-informative designs and methods of nature and nurture research of mental health
• Communicate knowledge of key concepts and developments in this research area to specialist and non-specialist audiences