PSY1060 Psychological Health, Difficulties & Disorder CA2 S1, 2025-26

PSY1060 Continuous Assessment 2

– Critical essay assignment (3000 words)

Module: Psychological Health, Difficulties and Disorder

Course: MSc in Psychology (Conversion)

Semester: 1

Weighting: 60% of overall grade for module

Critically discuss one of the following statements, with reference to major theories and current research evidence:

1. Contemporary psychology has been criticised for over-pathologising normal emotional responses to difficult life events.

In your answer,

i) critically analyse this statement, incorporating consideration of at least one diagnosis contained in the DSM or ICD;
ii) discuss current alternative approaches to conceptualising mental distress; and
iii) reflect on how adopting an alternative approach to categorisation could influence psychological practice.

2. Proponents of some newer psychological therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), argue for shifting the focus of treatment away from symptom reduction and toward helping people to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, even in the presence of distress.

In your answer;

i) discuss the potential benefits of prioritising quality of life over symptom reduction in psychological practice; ii) critically evaluate any challenges or limitations to this approach, and
iii) reflect on how these ideas might influence your own life or your future work as a psychologist.

3. Much of what we know about mental health and mental illness is based on research conducted with samples from Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich and Democratic (WEIRD) societies.

In your answer,

i) consider the implications of this over-reliance for theory and practice in psychological health and wellbeing; ii) critically evaluate the concept of ‘cultural competence’ as a proposed solution – what are its strengths and limitations?; and
iii) reflect on how you could incorporate cultural considerations into your own current or future research and/or practice in psychological health and wellbeing.

Please note: It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with university regulations on academic integrity and plagiarism. There is a link to these regulations at the top of the module Loop page. Please consult the programme handbook for details on late submissions.

Generative AI must not be used in this assessment.

PSY1060 Marking Rubric

Content and Focus (20%) 

Appropriateness and range of background reading. Topic is comprehensively addressed and content is focused.

Knowledge and understanding (20%)

of concepts, principles and/or theories. Demonstration of in-depth knowledge and outside reading.

Critical Evaluation (40%)

of concepts, principles and/or theories.

Structure (10%)

Coherence of essay and the extent to which it demonstrates an orderly sequence of ideas and discussion points.

Presentation (10%)

General style, e.g., clarity and smoothness of expression; quality of presentation, grammar, spelling and accuracy of referencing