1.1.1 Analyse normal and abnormal patterns of human development.

The analysis of normal and abnormal human behaviour was covered by my undergraduate degree. The physiology module studied taught the importance of the physiological processes in the body associated with a normal functional state, and about the significance of homeostasis in relation to how it is central to maintaining normal processes. The consequences of a dysfunctional homeostasis were also covered (1, pg 59 & 60).

The structure and function of cells including specialised cells of muscle, neural, cardio and vascular systems were also covered (1, p60).
As part of a paediatric module, child development from the age of 0-5 yrs was studied as well as neuromuscular and central nervous system disorders, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophies, spina bifida (1, pg 124). As part of the Practical Development module elderly care was covered where the physiological changes of aging were studied (1, pg 104). This module also dealt with the incidence, aetiology and medical management of learning disabilities and psychiatric illness (1, pg 135).

Behavioural perspectives in health and illness were also covered in the syllabus identifying the importance of the biopsychosocial model of health, and understanding the relationship between health and illness from a behavioural perspective. The module also highlighted the relationship between behaviour and CNS mechanisms and impairments, including, for example, agnosia, dysphasia and dyspraxia (1, pg 116).

As part of ‘Research II /III’ a small-scale research project was undertaken. This studied the risk factors for coronary heart disease in adolescents including smoking, alcohol and lack of physical activity, with relation to social, cultural and environmental aspects (2, pg v).

ref
1. Syllabus
2. Dissertation