Observation Theory & Practice in perinatal & infant mental health (8APF035)

Observation Theory & Practice in perinatal & infant mental health (8APF035)

Level ~ Graduate Diploma
Availability ~ To be announced
Type ~ Perinatal and Infant

Skills in observation are considered basic to competent practice in perinatal and infant mental health. Observational skills facilitate better understanding of:

  • Emerging developmental competencies
  • The infant or child's internal world
  • The nuances of early interactions and the development of attachment relationships

This unit introduces students to methods and practice of observation in perinatal and infant mental health. Students will develop skills in recognising and understanding non-verbal and pre-verbal communications as a window into the internal world of the infant. They will also develop skills in recognising caregiving practices that support optimal development.


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the unit, students will be able to:

  1. Identify the importance of observation in perinatal and infant mental health;
  2. Develop skills in recognising and understanding non-verbal and pre-verbal communication;
  3. Recognise the importance of caregiving sensitivity, intrusiveness and hostility; and
  4. Describe reflective supervision and why it is important in perinatal and infant work.

Weekly Schedule
Week 1 Observation and why it matters
Week 2 Changing perspectives
Week 3 Observational methods & practice I
Week 4 Observational methods & practice II
Week 5 Professional issues