Ateneo - UPO

The course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of psychopathology and to the description of the main psychopathological disorders. This knowledge is essential to develop a shared professional language, to acquire the ability to recognize signs of psychological distress, and to guide the design of appropriate and targeted educational interventions across the life span.

N. Rossi, “Psicologia clinica per le professioni sanitarie”, Mulino Editore, 2005. Additional materials prepared by the instructor will be made available on the DIR platform.

The course aims to provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical tools of clinical psychology applied to educational contexts. Specifically, it aims to develop the ability to observe, understand, and intervene in emotional, cognitive, and relational dynamics of children, adolescents, and adults in educational and socio-assistance settings.

No prerequisites required

The course combines traditional lectures with multimedia resources and supplementary materials, the use of explanatory videos, guided classroom discussions, and critical analysis of clinical and educational case studies, in order to foster interactive and applied learning.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities. Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

Student evaluation will be based on a written examination consisting of open-ended questions and multiple-choice items. This assessment format is designed to evaluate both the students’ ability to critically elaborate on course topics and their mastery of fundamental theoretical knowledge.

Foundations of Clinical Psychology - Definition and fields of application; personal, relational, and environmental factors in psychological distress. - Main theoretical and psychotherapeutic models. - Assessment tools: clinical interview, psychometric tests, concept of personality. Psychodynamic Perspectives - The unconscious and defense mechanisms (Freud, Ego Psychology). - Object relations theories (Klein, Mahler), contributions of Winnicott and Bowlby. Relationships, Empathy, and the Self - Origins and developments of the concept of empathy; mirror neurons. - Self Psychology (Kohut, Stern) and processes of self-realization. - The educational role as a “secure base.” Psychopathology and Mental Distress - Key concepts in psychopathology. - Distress in childhood and adolescence: substance use, eating disorders, self-harm, addictions. - Major forms of adult psychopathology. Clinical Work and the Educator - Helping relationship: interview, psychoeducational groups, and work groups. - Psychological competences of the practitioner, burnout prevention, and professional supervision.

At the end of the course, students will be able to: Demonstrate knowledge of the theoretical foundations of clinical psychology and its main paradigms. Identify personal, relational, and environmental factors involved in psychological distress. Understand key concepts of psychopathology in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Develop relational and empathic skills within the helping relationship. Reflect on the educational role, strategies for burnout prevention, and the use of professional supervision.