The course aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge of the main mental disorders, clinical assessment methods, and diagnostic tools. Students will develop skills in understanding psychopathological conditions, analyzing symptoms, and managing patients at an initial level. The course also seeks to raise awareness of suicide risk prevention and current psychiatric legislation.
Course Prerequisites
While no strict prerequisites are required, students should possess basic knowledge and skills appropriate to the course level, including prior exposure to the main themes and approaches of the discipline. Critical thinking, the ability to synthesize information, and a general confidence in reading and discussing academic materials will be beneficial for fully engaging with the course content. Students are advised to check any formal prerequisites specified in their individual study plan.
Teaching Methods
The course is delivered in person and includes lectures and clinical case discussions. Attendance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended, as active participation in the various learning activities greatly supports the achievement of the course’s intended learning outcomes.
Assessment Methods
Student learning is assessed through a written exam consisting of 15 multiple-choice questions, each with four answer options, only one of which is correct. The questions cover the entire course syllabus. The exam is graded on a 30-point scale. The final score is based on the number of correct answers. The passing threshold is set at 18 out of 30. Incorrect or unanswered questions do not result in penalties. The test is designed to distinguish different levels of competence, in alignment with the expected learning outcomes.
Texts
Compendio di Psicopatologia di Martinotti, Di Giannantonio e Janiri (2015), Casa Editrice Fila 37. (Capp. 1-14)
Contents
The Psychiatry Course provides an overview of the main mental disorders and methods of clinical assessment. It covers the psychopathological examination and disorders of the schizophrenia spectrum, depressive and bipolar disorders, as well as OCD and related conditions. Anxiety, dissociative, eating and nutrition, personality, and somatoform disorders are also addressed. The course includes the study of substance use disorders, including new psychoactive substances, and trauma-related disorders such as PTSD and adjustment disorders. Finally, it offers an introduction to pharmacological treatments, suicide prevention, and psychiatric legislation, providing a clear and integrated framework for understanding, evaluating, and approaching major psychopathological conditions.
Course Language
Italian
More information
Student office hours are held by appointment with the faculty members responsible for the course.
