Active learning ideas
This topic applies the biopsychosocial framework to a specific mental health condition: phobias. Students examine how biological factors (GABA dysfunction, LTP), psychological factors (classical and operant conditioning, cognitive biases), and social factors (stigma, environmental triggers) contribute to the development and maintenance of a phobia. They also evaluate evidence-based interventions like benzodiazepines, CBT, and systematic desensitisation.
Activity 01
Groups are given a specific phobia (e.g., fear of flying). They must create a large map showing how it was likely 'precipitated' by classical conditioning and 'perpetuated' by operant conditioning, while adding biological and social contributing factors.
How does the biopsychosocial model explain the onset of a specific phobia?
Activity 02
Pairs act as a therapist and a client. They must work together to create a 'fear hierarchy' for a common phobia and then role-play the process of moving through the steps while using relaxation techniques.
What role does classical conditioning play in precipitating a phobia?
Activity 03
Students discuss why someone with low GABA levels might be more prone to developing a phobia. They then share how benzodiazepines work as agonists to mimic GABA's inhibitory effect, calming the nervous system.
Which evidence-based interventions are most effective for treating specific phobias?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
A phobia is just being 'really scared' of something.
Students often miss the 'irrational' and 'maladaptive' components. Using case studies helps them see that a phobia must involve significant impairment in daily life and a level of fear that is out of proportion to the actual danger.
Benzodiazepines 'cure' phobias.
Students may think medication is a permanent fix. Through role play and discussion, they learn that benzodiazepines only manage the symptoms of anxiety in the short term and do not address the underlying psychological causes of the phobia.
Methods used in this brief
Defining Mental Wellbeing
Explore mental health as a continuum, distinguishing between mental wellbeing, mental health problems, and mental disorders. Students will identify the internal and external factors that influence mental health.
8 methodologies
Maintenance of Mental Health
Investigate the concept of resilience and the protective factors that help maintain mental wellbeing. Students will explore biological, psychological, and social strategies for building resilience.
8 methodologies