IMH202 - Contemporary Issues: Connecting Brain Development and Early Mental Health

Subject Title
Contemporary Issues: Connecting Brain Development and Early Mental Health

Subject Description
This course explores health from a holistic perspective with a focus on infants and young children.  Past theories may have viewed a divide between brain and behavior.  Today, scientists have unravelled the link between early adversity, brain development and gene expression.  In today's world, how we embed the science into practice and policy will be examined. A look at unique models of practice across various jurisdictions that are trying to embed modern science will be explored.  Barriers preventing change within different communities of practice and policy frameworks will be analyzed with a solution focused approach.  Students will become familiar with learning how to leverage the science of brain development to support changes in their practice context through case studies and discussions. Tools such as the   DSM V and the DC 0-5 will be introduced to provide students with an understanding of the purpose, and the restrictions for use of these tools. Major diagnostic categories specific to infant and early mental health will be explored.  Finally, students will be trained on how to implement and interpret developmental screening tools that have a strong focus on social emotional development during infancy through to preschool.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Explain the parts of the brain, their function and the role each plays in early mental health.
2. Discriminate between factors that promote or interfere with healthy early brain development.
3. Analyze the relationship among executive functioning, self-registration and attachment in the promotion of early healthy brain development.
4. Evaluate the impact of early life adversity on physical emotional, social cognitive well being in later life.
5. Determine how current research can be put into practice in services for families and young children.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.