You are required to produce a journal article that demonstrates your understanding of mental health and ill health. Your article should focus on individuals with Schizophrenia. The journal article must in

You are required to produce a journal article that demonstrates your understanding of mental health and ill health. Your article should focus on individuals with Schizophrenia.

The journal article must include the following sections.

SECTION 1

Provide an explanation of the significance of societal, cultural, and subcultural differences in the determination of a range of behaviours experienced by individuals suffering from mental ill health with reference to:

a) Labelling/ prejudice/ stigma
b) Implications for treatment
c) Ethical issues.

SECTION 2

You need to explain the following:

The possible contribution of genetic factors for Schizophrenia.The possible contribution of neurochemical factors for Schizophrenia.The possible contribution of social factors for Schizophrenia.The possible contribution of environmental factors for Schizophrenia.

SECTION 3

Provide an evaluation of different types of therapies, treatments, and care for Schizophrenia.

Guidance

For guidance about layout, structure and style of writing used for journal article you should refer to the study materials in the ‘Academic Writing Skills’ unit.

You will need to use images within your journal article to support your written commentary.

Remember to include the following in your assignment: –

A name for your journal articleRelevant subheadingsImages that support your written commentaryWrite your article in two columns

All sources used within the journal article, including any images or diagrams, must be cited and referenced accordingly. You must submit a references list and bibliography with your journal article.

The journal article should be a maximum of 2,000 words

Grade Descriptor

Indicative Content for Merit

Indicative Content for Distinction

Understanding of the subject

The student, student’s work or performance demonstrates a very good grasp of the relevant knowledge base.

The student, student’s work or performance demonstrates an excellent grasp of the relevant knowledge base.

Application of knowledge

The student, student’s work or performance makes use of relevant concepts and perspectives, has breadth or depth that goes beyond the minimum required to Pass, and has very good levels of insight and analysis.

The student, student’s work or performance makes use of relevant concepts and perspectives, has breadth and depth, and has excellent levels of insight and analysis.

Use of information

The student, student’s work or performance identifies new information from sources which are generally appropriate.

The student, student’s work or performance identifies new information from sources which are consistently appropriate.

Communication and presentation

The student, student’s work or performance shows very good command of format, structure, language (including technical or specialist language), spelling, punctuation and referencing.

The student, student’s work or performance shows excellent command of format, structure, language (including technical or specialist language), spelling, punctuation and referencing.

Quality

The student, student’s work or performance taken as a whole demonstrates a very good response to the demands of the brief/assignment.

The student, student’s work or performance taken as a whole demonstrates an excellent response to the demands of the brief/assignment.

Example

Journal Article: Understanding Mental Health and Ill Health in Individuals with Schizophrenia

SECTION 1: Societal, Cultural, and Subcultural Differences in the Determination of Behaviours Experienced by Individuals with Mental Ill Health

Mental health conditions such as schizophrenia are often shaped and influenced by the societal, cultural, and subcultural environments in which individuals live. These factors play a significant role in how behaviours associated with mental ill health are perceived and addressed. In this section, we will explore the impact of labelling, prejudice, and stigma, the implications for treatment, and the ethical issues related to mental health and schizophrenia.

a) Labelling, Prejudice, and Stigma

Labelling individuals with schizophrenia can have profound implications, often leading to negative societal attitudes. Schizophrenia is commonly misunderstood, with people associating it with violence or unpredictability. As a result, individuals with this condition are often subjected to prejudice and social exclusion.

The act of labelling someone with a mental health diagnosis can reinforce societal stereotypes. Terms such as “schizo” or “crazy” are pejorative labels that marginalise people living with schizophrenia, reducing them to their condition rather than acknowledging their individuality. This stigmatisation can affect many aspects of their lives, including employment opportunities, housing, and social relationships.

Cultural and subcultural perspectives also influence how schizophrenia is perceived. For instance, in some cultures, mental illness may be viewed as a form of spiritual punishment or possession, leading to additional layers of stigma and misunderstanding. Within subcultures, such as certain religious or ethnic communities, mental illness may be viewed as taboo, further exacerbating feelings of isolation and shame for those affected.

Continued…

Unit 13: Mental Health and Coping Strategies focuses on understanding the complexities of mental health and the ways individuals manage stress and mental health challenges in daily life. The unit delves into the distinctions between mental health and mental illness, examining how these conditions affect people on a personal and social level. Key mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress are explored in depth, with attention given to their causes, symptoms, and long-term effects. A significant portion of the unit is dedicated to identifying and analysing various coping strategies. It considers both positive coping mechanisms, like mindfulness, exercise, and therapeutic interventions, as well as negative ones, such as substance abuse and avoidance, which can exacerbate mental health issues. The unit encourages the development of resilience through healthier coping methods and highlights the importance of adaptability in overcoming mental health challenges.