Active learning ideas
This topic covers some of the most challenging psychological conditions. Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder where a person loses touch with reality, experiencing 'positive symptoms' like hallucinations (hearing voices) and delusions (false beliefs), as well as 'negative symptoms' like social withdrawal. The topic also introduces Neurodevelopmental Disorders, which appear early in life, such as ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Activity 01
To understand 'distractibility', one student tries to read a text while two others whisper different things in their ears. They discuss how difficult it is to focus when 'internal voices' are present.
What is the difference between positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia?
Activity 02
Stations for ADHD, Autism, and Intellectual Disability. At each, students list 'Strengths' and 'Challenges' for a student with that condition in a typical Indian classroom.
How does ADHD affect a child's academic and social life?
Activity 03
Students are given a list of symptoms (e.g., hearing voices, not talking, delusions, lack of emotion). They must categorise them into 'Positive' (added behaviours) and 'Negative' (taken away behaviours).
What are the core deficits associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
People with Schizophrenia have a 'split personality'.
Schizophrenia means a 'split from reality', not multiple personalities. Using a 'Fact vs. Fiction' card sort helps students unlearn media myths about the disorder.
ADHD is just 'being a naughty kid'.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder involving executive function. Discussing the 'biological basis' of ADHD helps students see it as a medical condition rather than a choice.
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
Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive, and Trauma-Related Disorders
A detailed look at the symptoms and characteristics of various anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Students will explore how these disorders manifest and disrupt daily functioning.
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