About Behavioural Sciences in Medicine

Behavioural Sciences in the Department of Medicine is involved in the teaching of many facets of behavioural sciences to students in the Sydney Medical School. Behavioural Sciences in Medicine conducts research into a broad range of topics related to the interface between medicine and the social sciences, including the development of the Hayes Ability Screening Index (HASI), which is a short and effective instrument to indicate the possible presence of intellectual disability amongst persons in contact with the criminal justice and/or mental health systems and to determine those who need to be referred for further full-scale diagnostic assessment.

The unit has a strong international profile in research into intellectual disability. Post-graduate students have conducted research in the areas of autism, forensic psychology, neonatal death, and offenders and victims with intellectual disabilities. Recent research has been undertaken investigating dual diagnosis of mental illness and intellectual disability in offenders.

Enquiries from suitably qualified prospective PhD students are welcome.