Psychology

This course is an introduction to various areas of psychology, including scientific investigation and prominent theories. Topics include, but are not limited to: motivation; emotions; personality; physiological foundations of behavior; psychological disorders and therapy; sensation and perception, learning and human development. Prerequisite: placement into ENGL110M. (Fulfills Social Science elective)

This course will vary by semester. Psychological topics will reflect faculty and/or student interests and will focus on an in-depth coverage of covered topics. All courses will focus on various aspects of psychology; concepts, events, forces, personalities, ideas and values shaping the contemporary world. The course should be considered “writing intensive”. Critical thinking, speaking and writing skills will be emphasized, as well as the ability to analyze psychological sources. Course prerequisites: PSYC110M and ENGL110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)

This course is the study of human growth and development with a specific emphasis on the physical, cognitive, social and emotional dimensions from the prenatal period to later adulthood. An examination of major theorists is presented during the course. Major developmental milestones, diversity, family make-up and socio-cultural dimensions complement the scope of the course. Prerequisites: PSYC110M and ENGL110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)

This course focuses on defining and understanding what constitutes abnormal behavior. Theoretical perspectives such as biological, psychosocial, and socio-cultural approaches will be examined and applied through comparative analysis. Students will be able to identify and interpret behavior and diagnostic criteria associated with mental illness. Synthesis of disorders, assessment, and diagnosis will be fostered in the classroom and applied to diverse cultures, communities, and societies. Prerequisites: PSYC110M and ENGL110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)

This course introduces the concepts of substance misuse as related to the individual and the family. This course discusses the disease concept of substance use disorders, the concept of denial, models for change, and available treatment options for people with substance use disorders and related issues. Prerequisites: ENGL110XM or ENGL110M and PSYC110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science or Human Services elective requirement).

This course provides perspective on psychological influences that affect adult development and the aging process. Discussion of adult development, including cognitive, social, and personality development, and other issues will be presented. A major focus of the course will be on the application of theories of typical development to the challenge of aging. Prerequisite: ENGL110M and PSYC210M with a grade of “C”. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)

This course offers the opportunity to consider both the theory and research specific to human behavior in social contexts. The dynamics of this interplay will be explored through topics that can include, but is not limited to: attitude formation/change; communication; aggression; stereotyping and prejudice; peer/familial/romantic relationships; aggression and community settings. A laboratory application in the form of a field-based project will complement the scope of this course. Prerequisites: ENGL110M and PSYC110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)

This class provides an intermediate exploration of the fundamentals of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development, from the prenatal period through adolescence. Various contemporary psychological perspectives and theories on human development will be analyzed and discussed. Prerequisites: ENGL110XM or ENGL110M and PSYC210M with a grade of “C” or better (Fulfills Social Science requirement, TCHE100M is not an equivalent course)

This course is created to help the student understand issues of health and wellness based on the triangle of health psychology: mind, body, and spirit. It is designed to have the student better understand the role that stress, mindset, positive and negative relationships, and life choices play in one’s overall health. The course also addresses stress reduction concepts, positive coping styles, the formation of healthy relationships, and the building of healthy lifestyles, as well as the affect that all of these have on one’s overall quality of life. This course brings to the students’ awareness the factors and behavioral methods that facilitate a resilient quality of life that is very different in nature and practice from the coping style of psychosocial survival. Prerequisites: PSYC110M, ENGL110M with a grade of “C” or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement)