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Mental health is studied within the social work context by examining the conceptual frameworks and legislation that distinguish mental health from mental illness, introducing the major diagnostic classifications. The course considers the context of mental disorders and consequently considers issues around human adaptation, culture and gender, policy and service provision. Students are supported to achieve an understanding of how theory applies to social work practice via on independent learning project, and online class discussions based on case studies and readings. Aotearoa New Zealand as a bicultural and mutlicultural country is woven throughout the course. Implications for working in multi-disciplinary teams, within mental health services or associated services as a social work practitioner are foundational features of this course.
At the end of the course students should be able to: Articulate knowledge about human development across a range of socio-cultural contexts. Consider the relevance of theories of trauma to particular human situations. Understand the concept of reflexivity (or critical reflection) in relation to theory and practice. Undertake literature searches, and assess the relevance of literature to topics under considerationEngage in discussions and debates wherein they convey a beginning capacity to hypothesise or develop theoretical questions from data and literature. Demonstrate knowledge of bi-cultural approaches to mental health Articulate knowledge about major areas of mental disorder, including knowledge of diagnostic criteria and evidence-based treatments. Demonstrate foundational awareness of the impacts of inequality, oppression and stigma on developmental issues and mental health and illness.
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:
Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award
Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
Employable, innovative and enterprising
Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
Biculturally competent and confident
Students will be aware of and understand the nature of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand, and its relevance to their area of study and/or their degree.
Engaged with the community
Students will have observed and understood a culture within a community by reflecting on their own performance and experiences within that community.
Globally aware
Students will comprehend the influence of global conditions on their discipline and will be competent in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts.
Any 240 points at 100 and 200 level from the Schedule C and E of the BSW(Hons). Head of Department approval mandatory.
SOWK611
Gretchen Perry
Course and Recommended Readings on LEARN. There is no hardcopy course reader/handbook. Course readings, recommended readings and materials used in each lecture will be available to be downloaded from LEARN.It is important to regularly check your SOWK303 LEARN page for updates.
Domestic fee $785.00
International fee $3,500.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Language, Social and Political Sciences .