Lesson Plans
MODULE THREE: Clinical Psychology
Multiple personality disorder cartoon
The aim of this module is introduce students to the various ways clinical psychologists may assess, diagnose and treat mental disorders. The module also improves students' mental health literacy by informing them of what the symptoms of a small number of mental disorders are.

Before beginning this Module, students need to be explicitly informed about two issues.

First, a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. Students should be reminded that the information provided in this module does not equip them to make diagnoses or to provide counselling or therapy.

Secondly, it is essential to emphasise that when students see the symptoms of disorders they naturally relate the symptoms to their own lives/situation and wonder if they are "disordered". Emphasise that this is a perfectly natural thing to do but what is done next is important. If, in the process of doing this Module, students think that they may have some of the difficulties discussed, then they should go and speak to someone. Students should be encouraged to speak to someone they trust for example, parent or other family member, general practioner, or teacher. It may be useful for the teacher to name a person in the school (e.g. SWC) who has agreed to be approached by students with concerns. It may also be useful to give them the Kids Help Line (or some other similar phone number) if deemed appropriate.
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