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Course Descriptions — Psychology (PSYC)

PSYC 100 Introduction to Psychology (3)

A survey of the basic principles, research concepts, and problems in psychological science. The biological, cognitive, and social perspectives of human thought and behavior are addressed. Topics include neuroscience, sensation and perception, learning and conditioning, memory, motivation, language and intelligence, personality and social behavior, and psychopathology and therapy. Applications of psychology are also presented. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 101 or PSYC 100.

PSYC 101 Psychology of Adjustment (3)

(Formerly PSYC 235.) A study of theory and research on the psychology of personal adjustment in everyday life. Emphasis is on self-concept, emotions, self-control, interpersonal relations, and stress. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 101 or PSYC 235.

PSYC 301 Biological Basis of Behavior (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200). An introduction to the anatomical structures and physiological processes that determine behavior. Topics include the acquisition and processing of sensory information, the neural control of movement, and the biological bases of complex behaviors (such as sleep, learning, memory, sex, language, and addiction), as well as the basic functioning of the nervous system.

PSYC 305 Research Methods in Psychology (3)

Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and STAT 225 (or PSYC 200). A survey of research methods focusing on the fundamentals of research design and behavior. Topics include scientific writing using APA style, evaluation of research literature, and ethical issues in research. Practice is provided in asking research questions, formulating research hypotheses, designing and conducting a simulated research study, and presenting results.

PSYC 306 Special Topics in Psychology (1–3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Seminar discussion of topics of current interest. Areas explored may extend or augment those covered in more general topical courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

PSYC 306A APA Writing Style for Psychology (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to the effective use and application of APA style for research projects, technical papers, and expository writing in the psychological and behavioral sciences.

PSYC 307 Special Topics in Psychology: Natural Science Theme (1–3)

PSYC 307D Improving Memory and Thinking (1)

(Formerly PSYC 309D.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A presentation of methods of improving memory and thinking as outcomes of basic theory and research. Assignments include workshop activities and critical review of relevant research.

PSYC 307G Parapsychology (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to parapsychology and experimental methods used in that field. Topics include the history of parapsychology, superstition and science, ESP in the laboratory, evidence for life after death, and reincarnation. Rival explanations for phenomena are considered critically.

PSYC 307H Sleep and Dreams (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to the clinical, cultural, and research aspects of sleep and dreams. Topics include historical and theoretical approaches to sleep and dreams, sleep deprivation and disorders, biological rhythms, typical dreams, and dream interpretation.

PSYC 307X Substance Abuse: An Introduction (1)

(Formerly PSYC 309X.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to the study of drug abuse. Topics include the causes, symptoms, and defenses for substance abuse, as well as prevention and treatment. Review covers biology, personality, life style, and relationships with families, peers, and communities. Drug abuse is compared to other social problems, including self-destructive, high-risk, and sabotaging behavior. How different cultures respond to drug abuse is also addressed. Practice exercises, observations, interviews, and media summaries supplement class discussions.

PSYC 308 Special Topics in Psychology: Social Science Theme (1–3)

PSYC 308E Cultivating Executive Skills (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A presentation of relevant behavioral and managerial science theory, research, and real-world applications of leadership training. Focus is on applied executive skills. Issues of workplace diversity, technology, and effective use of human resources are also covered.

PSYC 308H Psychology of Motivating People at Work (1)

(Formerly PSYC 309H.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of successful strategies for motivating people in work settings. Basic theories of work motivation are covered. Focus is on identifying managerial and personal motivational strategies in organizations through review of relevant research and case studies.

PSYC 308K Introduction to Black Psychology (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to issues and perspectives in the study of the psychological development of Black people, particularly in America, over the past 100 years. Topics include the Afrocentric and Eurocentric ethos; the nature of Black personality as affected by slavery and racism; psychological assessment, treatment, and counseling techniques; and the relationships between psychological research and social policy in American and Western research.

PSYC 308Q Psychology of Religion (1)

(Formerly PSYC 309Q.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the relationship of modern psychology and traditional religion in finding meaning in human reality and providing concepts and techniques for the ordering of the interior life. Topics include attitudes toward anxiety, issues of guilt, existential trust, the nature of suffering and evil, and the image of God and the function of belief.

PSYC 309 Special Topics in Psychology: Clinical Science Theme (1–3)

PSYC 309C Psychology of Eating Disorders (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to the current research on eating disorders—anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and obesity. Topics include adolescent eating behavior, theoretical explanations, factors associated with eating disorders, and the general management of disorders.

PSYC 309H Psychological Consequences of War and Violent Conflict (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A study of the effects of war on various groups of vulnerable people using a case example. Theoretical bases and issues are emphasized in order to better understand the development of disorders, the expression of these disorders, and treatment and rehabilitation.

PSYC 309K Managing Interpersonal Stress and Conflict (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An exploration of the nature and causes of stress and techniques for its management. Discussion covers psychological processes that cause interpersonal conflict and those that can bring about its reduction, as well as interpersonal and group factors such as cooperation and negotiation.

PSYC 309S Introduction to the Psychology of Parenting (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An overview of psychological issues relevant to parenting. Key theories and relevant research findings that directly apply to effective and ineffective parenting are presented. Discussion covers practical lessons in grand-, step-, and single-parenting; learning disabilities; the influence of media and technology; and cross-cultural aspects.

PSYC 309W Professional Psychology (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An overview of the profession of psychology. Lessons learned in teaching, research, therapy, and organizational consulting are presented. Career goals and aspirations are also addressed.

PSYC 309X Ethics in Mental Health and Psychological Treatment (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A general introduction to ethical considerations in the diagnosis and treatment of psychologically impaired persons. Topics include confidentiality, dual relationships, credentialing, recordkeeping, informed consent, and legal concerns.

PSYC 309Y Introduction to Hypnosis (1)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to some of the basic concepts and principles of hypnosis for psychological practice. The relationship between hypnosis and systematic desensitization and their respective roles in affecting human behavior are examined. Therapeutic uses of hypnosis and practical exercises in the use of self-hypnosis are also explored.

PSYC 310 Sensation and Perception (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 301. A survey of theories and historical and contemporary research in how the auditory, visual, gustatory, olfactory, kinesthetic, and touch senses acquire information and how psychological, anatomical, physiological, and environmental factors help us perceive the world.

PSYC 315 Motivation (3)

Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and 301. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A study of the interaction of physiological, neurological, and pharmacological aspects of motivation with environmental influences such as culture, learning, and social dynamics. Relevant issues (such as aggression, sex, achievement, and cognition) are discussed.

PSYC 321 Social Psychology (3)

(Formerly PSYC 221.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the influence of social factors on individual and interpersonal behavior. Topics include conformity, attitudinal change, personal perception, interpersonal attraction, and group behavior. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 221, BEHS 421, BEHS 450, PSYC 221, or PSYC 321.

PSYC 332 Psychology of Human Sexuality (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of historical and contemporary psychological views on a wide variety of sexual behaviors. Topics include theory and research on the interrelationship of lifespan psychological development, psychological functioning, interpersonal processes, and sexual behaviors. Political and social issues involved in current sexual norms and practices are also discussed. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 363, HLTH 377, or PSYC 332.

PSYC 334 Psychology of Interpersonal Relationships (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A study of research and theory on the development, maintenance, and dissolution of human relationships, followed by consideration of practical applications. Topics include processes critical to successful relating (such as communication, bargaining, and resolution of conflict). Focus is also on issues that are specific to troubled dyadic relations of equal partners (such as jealousy, spousal abuse, and divorce).

PSYC 337 Community Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey and critical examination of the interrelationship of environmental factors and variations in individual functioning. The effects of social process and social structure on the mental health of individuals in community life are evaluated. Discussion covers both theoretical models and other topics in community psychology.

PSYC 338 Psychology of Gender (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of the biological, lifespan development, socialization, personality attributes, mental health factors, and special considerations associated with gender.

PSYC 339 Educational Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An overview of educational psychology focusing on processes of learning. Discussion covers measurement of differences between individuals (in intelligence, styles of thinking, understanding, attitudes, ability to learn, motivation, emotions, problem solving, and communication of knowledge) and the significance of those differences. Problems in the field are introduced and outlined. Examination of research in educational psychology supplements study. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: EDHD 460, PSYC 309J, or PSYC 339.

PSYC 341 Introduction to Memory and Cognition (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An introduction to basic models, methods of research, and findings in the fields of memory, problem solving, and language. Applications as well as theory are explored.

PSYC 345 Group Dynamics (3)

Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and 321. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An analysis and exploration of psychological forces in small-group behavior. Issues of growth, conflict, and successful performance are considered. Emphasis is on the application of rigorous scientific theory and research to the impact group dynamics have on real organizational and community problems. Topics include group development, team building, sports psychology, multicultural influence, social advocacy, and leadership. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 309A, PSYC 345, or SOCY 447.

PSYC 351 Lifespan Development Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An integrated study of the biological, socioemotional, and cognitive development of humans from conception through late adulthood. Examination of each progressive stage of development emphasizes the interaction of nature and nurture on one’s physiology, capability, and potential.

PSYC 353 Adult Psychopathology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An examination of mental disorders among adults. Topics include the identification and diagnosis of specific disorders as well as their etiology and treatment. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 331, PSYC 353, or PSYC 431.

PSYC 354 Cross-Cultural Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An exploration of cultural components of theory and research in the fields of personality, social psychology, and community psychology. The interplay of individual, ethnic, and cultural factors in psychosocial growth and well-being, as well as in cross-cultural and cross-ethnic communication, is stressed. Counseling and psychotherapeutic interactions are discussed.

PSYC 355 Child Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A survey of research and theory focusing on psychological development, from conception through childhood. Physiological, conceptual, and behavioral changes are addressed, with attention to the social and biological context in which individuals develop. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 333, PSYC 355, or PSYC 433.

PSYC 356 Psychology of Adolescence (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A description of adolescent development according to research and theory. The physiological, intellectual, and social changes of the teen years are viewed as interrelated, and the systems dealing with those changes are examined.

PSYC 357 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An overview of the development of physiological, intellectual, and interpersonal social functioning from early adulthood through the aging years. The dual theme is that of stability and change. Discussion covers theory and research and their implications.

PSYC 361 Survey of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A general survey of the field of industrial/organizational psychology. Topics include entry into the organization (recruitment, selection, training, socialization); organizational psychology (motivation, attitudes, leadership); and productivity in the workplace (quality of work, performance appraisals, absenteeism, turnover). The role that the larger environment plays in influencing behavior and attitudes on the job is also considered.

PSYC 370 Foundations of Forensics Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A survey of psychological research and theory related to behavior in the criminal trial process. Topics include jury selection, criminal profiling, eyewitness testimony, prediction of violent behavior, and mental competency of the accused.

PSYC 386 Psychology of Stress (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the forces that define and determine the stress response. Stress is studied as the product of the interactions of one’s social structure, occupational status, and psychological and physiological levels of well-being. The psychological perspective is brought to bear on the stresses produced by work organizations, political climate, definitions of achievement, socioeconomic pressures, and the conflicts of those circumstances with ethical and moral values. Discussion covers the constructive use of stress management techniques and the relationship between stress and illness. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 463, HLTH 285, or PSYC 386.

PSYC 391 Introduction to Neuropsychology (3)

Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and 301 and STAT 225 (or PSYC 200). Recommended: PSYC 305. An examination of how the human brain governs and influences cognition, language, memory, and emotion. Principles of the organization of the brain and the interaction of the brain and behavior are presented. Clinical, developmental, and experimental factors in psychological assessment of disorders are also considered. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 307A or PSYC 391.

PSYC 405 Principles of Behavior Modification (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A review of various features of human behavior. Literature on theory and research is evaluated in the application of operant and respondent conditioning principles. Analysis covers approaches to behavioral problems in school, home, and professional settings.

PSYC 415 History of Psychology (3)

(Recommended as preparation for graduate study.) Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and two upper-level psychology courses. A study of the origins of psychology in philosophy and biology and the development of psychology as a science in the 19th and 20th centuries. Current theoretical perspectives and experiments are considered in relation to the enduring problems of psychology, as well as the roles of culture, science, and technology in the development of psychological ideas.

PSYC 424 Psychology of Persuasion (3)

Prerequisites: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200 and PSYC 305 and 321. A study of the effect of social communication on behavior and attitudes. Theory and research concerning social influence and change of attitude are examined.

PSYC 432 Introduction to Counseling Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey and critical analysis of research and intervention strategies developed and used by counseling psychologists. Historical and current trends in content and methodology are examined.

PSYC 435 Personality Theories (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A study of major theories and perspectives on personality, including trait, psychodynamic, behavioristic, and humanistic theories. Methods of personality research and relevant findings are also introduced and applied to realworld settings.

PSYC 436 Introduction to Clinical Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies employed by clinical psychologists. The scientist-practitioner model is emphasized through the critical analysis of theories and empirical research that provide the foundation for determining effective treatments of mental disorders.

PSYC 437 Positive Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of the science of positive psychology. Focus is on the unique characteristics of the human experience that contribute to health and well-being. Topics include hope, optimism, human strengths, happiness, flow, and attachment.

PSYC 441 Psychology of Human Learning (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. A review and analysis of the major phenomena and theories of human learning. Conditioning, the application of behavior analysis to real-world problems, and laboratory techniques in learning research are also presented.

PSYC 451 Principles of Psychological Assessment (3)

(Recommended as preparation for graduate study.) Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and STAT 225 (or PSYC 200). Recommended: PSYC 305. An examination of basic concepts and theories of psychological assessment, including test development. Social, legal, cultural, and ethical considerations in psychological testing are also discussed.

PSYC 466 Environmental and Ecological Psychology (3)

Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: STAT 225 (or PSYC 200) and PSYC 305. An examination of the measurement, description, and impact of the physical environments that affect various aspects of cognition and social behavior in school, at work, and at leisure. Topics include responses to environmental stress and catastrophes, personal and space territoriality, urban living, and psychological solutions to everyday environmental problems.

PSYC 486A Psychology Field Experience Through Co-op (3)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 246). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in psychology. At least 12 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a minimum of 180 hours during the Co-op session; four new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to psychology and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).

PSYC 486B Psychology Field Experience Through Co-op (6)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 246). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in psychology. At least 20 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a total of 300 hours during the Co-op session; five to eight new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to psychology and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).