Psychology Major Curriculum

An introduction to psychology as a behavioral science and profession. Topics such as physiology and behavior, learning, memory and forgetfulness, intelligence, life span changes, personality development, social behavior, abnormal behavior and treatment approaches are examined.

A survey of human development from conception to death with an emphasis on the underlying psychological processes. The unique challenges associated with infancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood are considered.

An overview of physical, emotional, social, language and cognitive development during childhood. The interplay of heredity and environment on normal and abnormal development is stressed. Students who have completed GPS 203 or GED 203 may not register for this course.

An examination of the impact of social influences on attitudes, feelings, and behavior. Selected topics include conformity, obedience, prejudice, attitude change, liking and loving, aggression and conflict, helping and cooperation, group interactions and bystander apathy.

This course examines the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of adolescents. Topics include genetic, cultural, and social factors that enhance or inhibit development.

Psychological methods for selecting and training employees, enhancing morale of workers and improving their relationships with management are studied. Another focus is the psychology of marketing and advertising.

An overview of the literature focusing on the psychological dynamics underlying functional and dysfunctional family relationships. Theories and techniques of family therapy are examined.

Physical, cognitive, sensory and personality changes that occur due to aging. Topics include theoretical perspectives, lifestyle changes, family relationships, age-related diseases, health care, as well as death and dying.

This course will study developmental disabilities from a psychological and sociological perspective. Topics to be covered include the effects of institutional life on development, the role of the family in development, and the influence that peers and staff have on the life of the developmentally disabled person. In addition, the foundations of psychological measurement are presented, including the I.Q controversy. The social stigma attached to being physically challenged is discussed, with an emphasis on research regarding attitude formation and change.

The historical, theoretical and statistical foundations of psychological testing. Examination of major tools that assess cognitive ability, achievement, behavior, personality and career interests.

This course explores the clinical, treatment and service delivery issues unique to working with the developmentally disabled. Using a biopsycho-social perspective the course discusses challenges facing case managers in reaching clients whose functioning ranges from mild to profound levels of developmental delays. Behavior modification as it applies to developmental disabilities will be explored.

Methodological and experimental approaches to human behavior focusing on sensation, perception, learning, and memory. Experiments are conducted in class, results analyzed, and scientific reports written. Students also design and write a proposal for an experimental project.

More advanced research design and experimental approaches to human behavior including learning, perception, and problem-solving. Scientific reports including possible honors thesis proposals prepared by students.

The personality theories of Freud, Jung, Fromm, Sullivan, Rogers, Perls and Skinner and the motivational theories of Maslow and McClelland are studied.

The psychological, physiological, social and developmental dimensions of sexuality. Physical components of sexual behavior, sexual identity, sexual behavior over the life span, dysfunctions and treatments are among the topics.

An overview of legal and illegal psychoactive drugs. Topics include the nature of drug dependency and addiction, societal influences, biological and psychological bases of drug use and abuse, psychological and pharmacological treatments, prescription drug treatment for psychological disorders, and issues surrounding restriction and legalization.

The patterns and dynamics of minority families in the United States. Changing demographics, diversity of familial structures, difficulties surrounding immigration and acculturation, educational concerns, functional and dysfunctional family relationships, as well as treatment and therapeutic issues, are among the included topics.

Social and cultural conditions affecting minority women in the United States. Relationships, attitudes, achievements, mental health, as well as therapeutic issues and strategies, are examined.

The origins of modern psychology within the discipline of philosophy during the 19th century. Conception and growth of experimental psychology, psychoanalysis, Gestalt psychology, humanistic psychology, behaviorism, psychobiology, and cognitive psychology, as well as new directions, are considered.

An overview of psychological disorders with emphasis on etiology, symptoms, diagnostic tools and treatments. The major theories of psychopathology are considered.

Psychological aspects of physical health and illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, AIDS, and obesity are covered. Students also investigate the role of health providers and their institutions in improving the prognoses of patients. Treatments such as biofeedback, relaxation training, and hypnosis are also examined.

The biological basis of behavior. Topics include anatomy and physiology of the nervous system and sense organs, drugs and behavior, sleep and dreaming, eating, brain disorders and abnormal behavior.

This course is a vehicle for teaching about material for which there is insufficient demand for being offered on a regular basis or which is of interest only on some but not all campuses.

Special problems of children who differ markedly from the average: mentally retarded, brain damaged, psychologically disturbed, sociopathic, physically handicapped, culturally deprived, and gifted children. Genetics, neuropsychological, and sociological aspects as well as causes, assessment, and remediation.

The etiology, description, and treatment of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders associated with obesity. Relation between eating disorders and other psychopathology.

Students work in organizations such as schools, community agencies or clinics to gain practical experience. Performance is assessed by the site supervisor and a department faculty member.

This capstone course provides the opportunity for students to demonstrate comprehensive learning in psychology. Emphasis is placed on the enhancement of critical thinking and communications skills as well as preparation for entry into the workforce or graduate school.