Investigate the varying approaches to decision-making in the context of developing mental health
interventions for UK youth and young adults by comparing and contrasting quantitative and qualitative
analysis methods.
Guidelines:
1. Select and describe three specific techniques from each category (quantitative and qualitative) that
are relevant to mental health research. These techniques might include statistical analysis, modelling
for quantitative methods, and interviews, focus groups, or thematic analysis for qualitative methods.
2. Emphasize techniques that are particularly relevant to mental health interventions, providing
examples from this sector.
3. Highlight circumstances under which qualitative analysis is more appropriate compared to
quantitative analysis, and vice versa, in the context of mental health.
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4. Summarise the key points of your comparison in a table to clarify differences and applications of each
approach. (Word count: 900 words, ±10%).
Task 2: Systems Dynamics/Thinking in Mental Health Role Analysis
Mental Health Amongst Young Adults of Black Heritage in the UK
Mental health disparities among young adults of Black heritage in the UK have been well-documented in
various studies. This population, particularly those aged 18–30, faces unique challenges that contribute to
mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. According to research, young Black adults
experience mental health challenges at higher rates than their white counterparts due to factors such as
racial discrimination, socioeconomic inequality, and cultural stigma(SpringerLink)(Home). These challenges
are exacerbated by systemic barriers, including limited access to culturally competent mental health
services(SpringerLink).
Your task is to analyse these mental health disparities using Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) and Stock and
Flow Diagrams (SFDs). By leveraging a systems thinking approach, you will assess the interactions between
key factors contributing to poor mental health outcomes and propose potential interventions. Your goal is
to use these tools to provide insights into how different variables interact and to simulate the impact of
potential interventions aimed at improving mental health among Black British young adults.
Deliverables:
1. Causal Loop Diagram (CLD): Clearly labelled with all relevant variables and explanations for each feedback
loop.
2. Stock and Flow Diagram (SFD): Clearly labelled with stocks, flows, and feedback structures. Include a brief
description of how your model captures the dynamics of mental health over time.
3. Intervention Proposal: A summary of three interventions that you believe will have the most significant
impact on improving mental health outcomes. Use the CLD and SFD to support your argument.
4. Simulation (Optional): Use Vensim or another system dynamics simulation tool to simulate the outcomes of
the interventions over time. Show how each intervention changes the behaviour of the system.
Submission Guidelines:
• Use Vensim or any other system dynamics software to create the diagrams.
• Ensure that each diagram is clear, with appropriate labelling of feedback loops and
interactions between variables.
• Write a brief report summarizing your findings and discussing how the system dynamics
model provides insights into the complex mental health challenges faced by Black British
young adults.
Learning Outcomes:
Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this assessment, you will be able to:
▪ Critically discuss the differences between quantitative vs. qualitative business analysis approaches.
▪ Successfully critique Systems Thinking for analysis using a wide range of appropriate sources and
resources.
▪ Communicate effectively using different communication means such as report writing, use of ICT
and, poster and/or oral presentation, to convey complex topics and concepts.
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▪ Autonomously evaluate specialised contexts, requiring selection and application from a wide range
of information sources
Note: The word counts exclude the full list of references. Your report should include an introduction,
overview of literature on system dynamics/system thinking, method, findings, and conclusion sections