· The student will write a 2000-word essay on a specific mental disorder. The essay will include diagnostic criteria (5%), research regarding recommended treatments and treatment outcomes (20%), and ethical issues regarding its definition, research, and treatment (5%).

· For example, one might choose Obsessive compulsive disorder in adults and define it through listing DSM diagnostic criteria or from a biological perspective or a socio-cultural perspective.

· Relevant references that discuss studies of treatment methods and outcome would be individually reviewed and synthesised.

· You have to make a judgment about how much detail to include for each study.

· In general, write about Who the participants were, What was done to them, When they were assessed if it is a repeated measures design and what the authors believe they learned from the study?

· The best papers have also included a brief critical evaluation of the studies they included, noting some possible strengths and weaknesses and how research might be improved.

· The study limitations comments in articles can serve this purpose but please give the authors credit for noting the problems with their own work.

· The ethical concerns that might arise during assessment, diagnosis, and treatment also need to be discussed.

· The order of the presentation of the material can be varied as long as all aspects of the assignment are covered.

· Word limit criteria as noted above will apply.

· Clarity of argument (35%)

– Argument is logical

– Discussions are supported by examples and research evidence

– Points are clear and easily followed

· Writing (15%)

– Structure of argument

– Grammar

– Punctuation

– APA format and correct referencing

· Critical analysis (50%)

– Essay reflects the criteria; including discussion surrounding diagnosis of the chosen psychological disorder, treatment approaches and effectiveness and ethical considerations.

– Discussions reflect the recommended percentage of allocated time and resources to each criteria.

– Essay reflects a critical and unbiased approach Introduction, body, conclusion

· The introduction should introduce key ideas, issues, and the general theme or your argument (approx 10% of word usage).

· The body should include a logical progression or ideas/central points addressing the criteria for diagnosis; treatment approaches and key issues in research; and ethical considerations in research or treatment.

· The conclusion should clearly summarise the essay and provide information about further directions for research etc (again, 10% of word usage here).

· The paper must be written in APA 6th style

· Double Spacing

· Paragraphs indented on the first line

· In text citations as per APA and Reference list as per APA

· You can only use scientific sources: Peer reviewed journal articles or books.

· An abstract is not required To gain a High Distinction the work must:

· Be highly relevant to the demands of the task (e.g. the essay must answer all parts of the criteria fully and correctly and must present such information in the form of a clear argument).

· Be well organised and structured. There must be clear evidence of a systematic approach.

· Show originality and insight.

· Comprise mainly clear, broad, and deep reporting and citation of the literature. There must be evidence of wide and appropriate reading.

· Comprise prose that is mainly clear, simple, and accurate.

· Adhere to APA formatting