Course

Unit 1

Introduction 

Definition, historical perspective, scope, methods and functions. Multi-disciplinary approach to rehabilitation: Biological, medical, psychological, educational and social aspects. Recent trends in research in rehabilitation psychology. Explore beginner-friendly rehabilitation software and apps, such as MedBridge, Rehab Guru, or Rehab My Patient, to understand digital therapy planning and tracking.

Unit 2

Disability 

Degree, Types and Extent of Disabilities in India, Disability Rehabilitation, Disability Law and Human Rights. Work setting of rehabilitation psychologists – Designing training programmes for rehabilitation psychologists – Training needs analysis, implementation of training programmes. Government schemes and policies- Legislation: RCI Act, RPWD Act, National Trust, etc. Use online databases or digital dashboards to track government schemes and disability statistics for case studies and planning intervention.

Unit 3

Team approaches to rehabilitation

Psychologist in rehabilitation professional’s team; Psychological assessment and rehabilitation programme planning; Consultancy and service coordination in rehabilitation; Case and caseload management in rehabilitation; Vocational rehabilitation. Practice case coordination using digital collaboration tools like Google Workspace or Trello to simulate team-based rehabilitation planning.

Unit 4

Adjustment to Chronic Illness and Disability 

The individual’s responses to chronic illness and disability and their implications for rehabilitation; Theories: Beatrice Wright, Carolyn Vash, Kubler Ross; Factors impacting individuals‘ response to disability – Factors in the disability, Factors in the environment, Factors in the individual; Interaction between the individual and societal factors in shaping disability experience; Negative and positive responses to disability. Maintain digital reflective journals using apps such as Evernote or OneNote to track coping strategies, adjustment interventions, and patient progress in case simulations.

Unit 5

Rehabilitation in Clinical Contexts

Stroke and rehabilitation, Traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation, Persistent and chronic pain and rehabilitation, Limb amputation and rehabilitation. Elements of neuro-psychological rehabilitation. Assessment for psychological rehabilitation. Psychosocial support. Explore virtual rehabilitation simulations or video-based case studies to practice intervention planning and monitoring outcomes in a beginner-friendly digital format.

Text Books / References

Textbooks

1. Brenner, L. A., Reid-Arndt, S. A., Elliott, T. R., Frank, R. G., & Caplan, B. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook of rehabilitation psychology (3rd ed.). American Psychological Association.
2. Kennedy, P. (Ed.). (2012). The Oxford handbook of rehabilitation psychology. Oxford University Press.
3. Vash, C. L., & Crewe, N. M. (2004). Psychology of disability (2nd ed.). Springer Publishing Company.
4. Kennedy, P. (2012). The Oxford handbook of rehabilitation psychology. Oxford University Press.
5. Rehabilitation Council of India. (2000). Rehabilitation Council of India Act of 1992/Amendment 2000. Author.

Suggested Readings

1. Frank, R. G., & Elliott, T. R. (Eds.). (2000). Handbook of rehabilitation psychology. American Psychological Association.
2. Whyte, J., & Hart, T. (2003). It’s more than a black box; it’s a Russian doll: Defining rehabilitation treatments. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 82(8), 639–652.
3. Wright, B. A. (1983). Physical disability: A psychosocial approach (2nd ed.). HarperCollins.

Rehabilitation Psychology is a specialised branch of psychology that focuses on assisting individuals who are experiencing physical, mental, or cognitive impairments. The primary goal is to help these individuals achieve optimal psychological and functional recovery, adapt to their circumstances, and lead fulfilling lives. This discipline examines the complex psychological challenges that arise when a person is faced with a disability, such as changes in self-concept, emotional adjustment, and social integration.The course offers an in-depth exploration of the theories underpinning rehabilitation psychology, including the biopsychosocial model, which considers the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors in recovery. Students learn about various evidence-based interventions and therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation, all tailored to address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. These interventions aim to foster resilience, enhance adaptive coping strategies, and promote autonomy.A significant emphasis is placed on the psychologists multifaceted role in the rehabilitation process. This includes conducting psychological assessments, developing personalised rehabilitation plans, providing emotional support, and facilitating the development of self-management skills. Psychologists also act as advocates, guiding individuals and their families through the complexities of disability and helping them navigate available resources and services.Collaboration within interdisciplinary teams is a cornerstone of successful rehabilitation. The course highlights the importance of psychologists working closely with medical doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and other professionals. This collective approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive care addressing both physical and psychological aspects of rehabilitation, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and quality of life.Additionally, the curriculum introduces students to ethical considerations, cultural competence, and the use of technology in rehabilitation practice. By the end of the course, students will have acquired both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, empowering them to support individuals with disabilities effectively. They will be equipped to promote independence, facilitate community integration, and contribute positively to the field of rehabilitation psychology in diverse settings.

Course Objectives

• To introduce students to the key concepts and theories in rehabilitation psychology.
• To explore the psychological impact of disabilities and the rehabilitation process.
• To examine various therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing coping and recovery.
• To understand the role of rehabilitation psychologists in interdisciplinary teams.
• To develop an understanding of ethical considerations in working with individuals with disabilities.
• To introduce beginner-level technology tools to aid assessment, rehabilitation planning, and tracking patient progress.

Course Outcomes

• CO1: Demonstrate knowledge of the psychological principles involved in rehabilitation.
• CO2: Apply psychological theories to assist in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities.
• CO3: Understand the various interventions used to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities.
• CO4: Recognise the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in rehabilitation settings.
• CO5: Develop ethical and culturally sensitive approaches to working with individuals undergoing rehabilitation.

CO-PO Mapping