Psychology

Introduces students to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Provides an overview of major psychological concepts and theories in such areas as consciousness, learning, memory, motivation, perception, personality, stress, and social behavior.

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This course surveys various psychological research methods with an emphasis on research design, experimental procedures, descriptive methods, instrumentation, and the collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of research data. Research design and methodology will be examined through a review of research in a variety of the subdisciplines of psychology.

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Choose one course from List C below

This course introduces the scientific study of the biological bases of behavior and its fundamental role in the neurosciences. Physiological, hormonal, and neurochemical mechanisms, and brain-behavior relationships underlying the psychological phenomena of sensation, perception, regulatory processes, emotion, learning, memory, neurological, developmental and psychological disorders will be addressed. The course also notes historical scientific contributions and current research principles for studying brain-behavior relationships and mental processes. Ethical standards for human and animal research are discussed in the context of both invasive and non-invasive experimental research. 3 hours.

Introduction to theories and concepts that explain individual behavior in social settings. Topics include research methods, social perception, social cognition, beliefs, prejudice/discrimination, interpersonal relationships, aggression, and group behavior.

An overview of the field of abnormal psychology. Introduces students to the major classifications of mental health disorders from the perspective of symptoms and behavior, causes, diagnosis and treatment. Examines historical, socio-cultural and contemporary understanding of mental illness. Includes disorders of mood, anxiety, psychosis, substance abuse, personality and other disorders in adults and children.

Introduction to the psychological, physiological, socio-cultural and socio-historical factors influencing development from conception through death. Emphasis on the process of normal development and its variations. Examination of theoretical models and research for practical application.

Introduction to counseling theory and process with emphasis on fundamental principles of behavior change. Includes essential counseling skills, major counseling theories, and legal and ethical issues.

This course is an introductory overview of the field of human sexuality. Human sexuality in our contemporary society will be studied from the psychological, biological, sociocultural, and historical perspectives. Emphasis on understanding the interrelationship of attitude and behavior as it relates to sexual well-being and sexual integrity. Students will be encouraged to examine their own attitudes, values, and behaviors in the context of their moral compass and their culture and societal values. Current sex norms and various aspects of interpersonal and individual sexual adjustment will be explored.

The course is interdisciplinary in nature drawing from the field of positive psychology, health and clinical psychology, cross-cultural and holistic health, and neuroscience. An exploration of psychological theories, scientific research, key concepts of health, biopsychosocial factors, and practices that contribute to health and wellness over the lifespan. There is an emphasize on holism: the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, environmental, and occupational components of wellness. The course will examine the brain-mind-body health connection and review the scientific application of techniques that reduce stress and enhance biological, social, and psychological wellness. Drawing from the field of positive psychology, topics of happiness, mindfulness, biology of stress, emotional resilience, optimal well-being, positive health, creativity, and other topics will be explored.

This course is designed for students interested in how psychology is applied to personal and social adjustment in everyday life, to improve adjustment and effective living. Factors of adjustment include self-understanding, personality, sexual and gender identity, stress and coping processes, effective communication, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, psychological disorders, and their treatment. Other factors include social influences and pressures, culture, ethnicity, socio-economic factors, career preparation, work, and stages of life. The course looks at the biopsychosocial aspects of personal growth and adjustment, and surveys different psychological perspectives and theoretical foundations, as well as how scientists, clinicians, and practitioners’ study and apply psychology. Using the knowledge and applications of psychology, the desired outcome is for students to understand themselves and others, adjust behaviors, and to actively take charge of their own lives, effectively adjusting to a constantly changing world.

Introduction to psychological processes involved in creativity, innovation, and problem solving. Survey of current theories and research on creativity and innovation. Emphasis on improving creative and problem solving abilities.