Clinical and Developmental Psychology

The aim of the course is to provide fundamental knowledge in psychology, from the birth of scientific psychology to the most recent developments in the study of cognitive processes; to offer a basic understanding of the functioning of the human mind.
The course will provide knowledge in the main theories of child development, of the main stages in the development of the different psychological functions that characterize an individual.
The course will also provide the basis for understanding the role of the family in the main moments of transition in the life cycle, disability and illness

At the end of the course the student will be able to:
· discuss the fundamentals of cognitive, affective, perceptive-motor, socio-cultural development of the individual;
· discuss the main mechanisms of motivation;
· describe the usefulness of a cultural model for medical practice;
· describe the fundamental differences between Disease Centred Medicine and Patient Centred Medicine;
· discuss the concept of the patient's agenda;
· discuss the basic functions of communication in the professional-patient consultation;
· discuss the main aspects of the cognitive and behavioral approach;
· discuss the role of the family and caregivers.