Active learning ideas
Anxiety is a common experience, but for some, it becomes a debilitating disorder. This topic covers Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Phobias, and Separation Anxiety. It also explores Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), where intrusive thoughts lead to repetitive behaviours, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which follows a traumatic event. Students learn to identify the specific symptoms that distinguish these conditions from everyday worries.
Activity 01
Groups are assigned one disorder (e.g., Phobia, GAD, Panic). They create a 'Symptom Map' showing the physical, cognitive, and behavioural signs of that specific disorder.
What distinguishes generalized anxiety disorder from panic disorder?
Activity 02
Students act out a simple cycle: an intrusive thought (Obsession) leads to anxiety, which leads to a repetitive action (Compulsion), providing temporary relief before the cycle repeats.
How do obsessions and compulsions interact in OCD?
Activity 03
Students discuss how a survivor of a major flood or accident might feel months later. They identify symptoms like 'flashbacks' and 'avoidance' mentioned in the textbook.
What are the common triggers and symptoms of PTSD?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
OCD is just about being 'neat and clean'.
OCD involves distressing, uncontrollable thoughts and rituals that may have nothing to do with cleaning. Using case studies of 'checking' or 'counting' compulsions helps broaden this understanding.
A panic attack is just 'being very nervous'.
A panic attack is an intense, sudden surge of physical terror often mistaken for a heart attack. Comparing the physical symptoms of 'test nerves' vs. a 'panic attack' helps clarify the intensity difference.
Methods used in this brief
Concepts of Abnormality and Psychological Disorders
An examination of the historical background and current perspectives on abnormal behaviour. Students will learn about the diathesis-stress model and the classification systems like DSM and ICD.
8 methodologies
Somatic Symptom, Dissociative, and Depressive Disorders
This topic covers disorders where psychological distress manifests physically, disorders involving a loss of memory or identity, and major mood disorders. Students will analyze the impact of depression and bipolar disorder.
8 methodologies
Schizophrenia Spectrum and Neurodevelopmental Disorders
An overview of severe psychological disorders including schizophrenia, focusing on positive and negative symptoms. The topic also introduces neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
8 methodologies