Writing Assignment #1 (Unit I, Module 1)

PSY210 Psychology of the Individual in Context

For this assignment, you are asked to focus on the diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a disorder characterized by inattention (e.g., distractibility,
disorganization), hyperactivity (e.g., restlessness, fidgeting) and impulsivity (e.g., quick
decision-making, interrupting others).
After reading the article Culture and Classification, viewing the recorded lecture for this
module, and watching the video on ADHD, consider what both the universalist and relativist
perspectives would be on a diagnosis such as ADHD. First, write as if you were a psychologist
with a universalist point of view. Provide a few statements about the disorder that support
your position. Second, write as if you were a psychologist with a relativist point of view.
Provide a few statements about the disorder that support your position.
Grading Rubric for Writing Assignment #1
9-10
points
Response addresses the prompt in a thoughtful and academic manner; all questions are answered with
adequate depth, length, and reference to course content (recommended response length is a couple of well-
developed paragraphs or approximately 300-400 words total). Response is readable, grammar is sufficient, and
spelling is accurate. Full points are awarded to initial responses that demonstrate excellence, express critical
thinking about the readings and course content, and offer thoughtful participation.
7-8
points

The response is readable and comments make sense in the context of the questions presented. However, the
depth, length, and reference to course content were not thorough. Mistakes might be present in content
accuracy. There is insufficient critical thinking recognized. These responses are good in that they demonstrate
the student has completed the readings and other course content with some additional integration and critical
thinking needed.
5-6
points
Questions answered with limited depth, length, and reference to course content. Response is readable, but
there is a lack of critical thinking and in-depth attention to the reading and course content. Multiple errors in
accuracy present.
0-4
points
The response demonstrates insufficient critical thinking about and understanding of the course content and the
readings. Response is not written in a way that makes sense in the context of the questions. Response does not
answer questions. Response is unreadable.