Psychology BA (C), Relational Frame Theory, 7.5 credits

Aim

The purpose of the course is to provide a comprehensive theoretical overview and basic practical training in the use of Relational Frame Theory (RFT), a modern learning psychology approach to cognition and language.

Course objectives

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• Describe central concepts and processes in Relational Framing Theory (RFT), including its basic assumptions in philosophy of science.
• Describe the historical development of RFT and its relevance in learning psychology and Contextual Behavioural Science.
• Critically review current research on RFT.
• Compare and evaluate different scientific approaches in RFT research.

Skills and abilities

• Analyze human behavior based on relational framing theoretical principles and identify functional relationship patterns.
• Design and justify a research plan based on RFT, taking into account scientific method, ethics and practical relevance.
• Communicate research ideas and theoretical reasoning about RFT orally and in writing, both within the student group and in interprofessional contexts.
• Collaborate in groups to plan and present research plans based on RFT with division of responsibilities and constructive feedback.

Judgement and approach

• Reflect on the possibilities and limitations of applying RFT in different fields of psychological activity.
• Identify and discuss research ethics aspects and dilemmas in studies and applications of RFT, especially in relation to vulnerable groups or clinical applications.
• Reflect on their own understanding of behavioural analytic perspectives and how this affects professional development and knowledge acquisition.

Content

The course builds on the learning theory module in the course Perception, Emotion, Cognition, and Learning. It covers the emergence, content, and development of Relational Frame Theory (RFT), as well as the philosophy of science and scientific objectives that inform RFT’s development and use. The course includes exercises in understanding and applying RFT, as well as formulating research plans based on RFT across various application areas.

Entry requirements

60 ECTS in Psychology.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching takes place through lectures, seminars and group work as well as via an internet-based self-study part.

Examination form

1101: Written exam - Individual written exam, 3 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale
Home exam

1201: Research plan - Group Work, 3 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale
Group work and presentation of the proposed research plan.

1301: Seminars - Seminar, 1.5 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale
Includes several seminars with both oral and written components. To pass the module, active participation in all seminars is required and all written submissions must be approved. Occasional absences (due to extraneous circumstances) can be replaced by written assignments.

Subject-specific grading criteria can be found at: https://www.miun.se/gradingcriteria

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.

Grading system

Two-grade scale