PSY

This course is designed to present an overview of psychology. As an introduction to the field, students learn current perspectives and the methods used in psychology today. They become familiar with problems and general findings in the processes of sensation, perception, learning and memory, and consider issues related to language, thought, and intelligence. They focus, too, on understanding the connections between emotions, stress, and health, and examine current theories in developmental, personality, and abnormal psychology. Students are encouraged to apply psychological principles to personal and social concerns.

This course offers students majoring in the field or those interested in further study of psychology an opportunity to familiarize themselves with theories within selected areas of scientific psychology (Interpersonal and Social relations, Sensation, Perception, Emotions, Motivation, Intelligence, Personality Assessment, Psychological Disorders and Therapies).

This course is designed to investigate human development from the prenatal period through adolescence using a life-span approach. The class will focus on the interaction of biological, social, emotional, and cognitive factors as they affect the developing child. Contemporary developmental theories and research issues will be discussed, and emphasis will be placed on the applications of theory to parenting, education, and therapy.

This course reviews the psychoanalytic, sociocultural, trait, learning, sociobiological, and existential-humanistic theories of personality. Personality characteristics are emphasized and basic assumptions underlying selective theoretical approaches are examined. Empirical research findings used to support various theoretical paradigms are critically evaluated and real-world applications are explored.

Lifespan Development investigates current theories related to the changes that occur from the prenatal period through old age. Emphasis is placed on understanding the complex interactions of biological, cognitive, social and emotional factors that shape the life course. Students will be expected to apply developmental theories to their own life experiences.

This course is intended primarily for students majoring in education or interested in the learning process. Psychological theories related to development, learning, cognition and motivation will be reviewed and applied to an understanding of student characteristics and differences, the importance of classroom environment, and various means of assessment. Emphasis will be placed on the practical implications of psychological theory, a constructivist approach to learning, and the importance of reflective teaching.

This course examines historical views of abnormal behavior and focuses on contemporary causes, classifications and treatments. Major disorders are considered from psychodynamic, cognitive, humanistic, biological and sociocultural perspectives.