ABSTRACT

University can be a psychologically distressing place for students. Empirical studies in Australia and the USA highlight that a large number of law students suffer from psychological distress, when compared to students from other disciplines and members of the general population. This book explores the significant role that legal education can play in the promotion of mental health and well-being in law students, and consequently in the profession. The volume considers the ways in which the problems of psychological distress amongst law students are connected to the way law and legal culture are taught, and articulates curricula and extra-curricula strategies for promoting wellbeing for law students. With contributions from legal academics, legal practitioners and psychologists, the authors discuss the possible causes of psychological distress in the legal community, and potential interventions that may increase psychological well-being. This important book will be of interest to legal academics, law students, members of the legal profession, post-graduate researchers as well as non-law researchers interested in this area.

chapter |7 pages

Introduction

chapter 3|13 pages

The Persistence of Distress

chapter 6|14 pages

Vitality for Life and Law

Fostering Student Resilience, Empowerment and Well-Being at Law School

chapter 7|15 pages

Resilience and Wellbeing Programmes

The Practical Legal Training Experience

chapter 8|12 pages

Resilient Lawyers

Maximizing Well-Being in Legal Education and Practice

chapter 10|13 pages

On Being, Not Just Thinking Like, a Lawyer

Connections Between Uncertainty, Ignorance and Wellbeing

chapter 11|13 pages

Balance and Context

Law Student Well-Being and Lessons From Positive Psychology

chapter 13|12 pages

Contemplative Practice in the Law School

Breaking Barriers to Learning and Resilience

chapter 15|12 pages

Beyond the Curriculum

The Wellbeing of Law Students Within Their Broader Environment