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Current Specialized Courses and Senior Experiences in Psychology
See PAWS for other course listings
Spring 2010
PSY 311: Sensation and Perception
Dr. Roger Cholewiak T 5:30-9:20
Prerequisite: PSY 101
The basic structure and function of the sensory systems are examined and related to our ability to experience the world. Sensation (the physics and chemistry of environmental stimuli, as well as the anatomy, physiology, and morphology of sensory systems - “bottom-up” processing) and Perception (the “psychology” of these systems, involving “top-down” processing), will provide an introduction to basic research and theory in these fields. In this course, all of the senses will be considered and given comparable weight, including vision, audition, the senses of touch, the chemical senses of taste and smell, and the often-overlooked vestibular and kinesthetic senses. Topics covered in the discussion of each sensory modality will also include illusions, perceptual development, effects of aging, sensory disability, and perceptual development. Commonalities in structure and function over the modalities will be emphasized.
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PSY 331: Clinical Psychology
Dr. Ashley Borders MR 3:30-5:20
Prerequisites: PSY 216 and PSY 217 and PSY 299
This course, an introduction to the profession of clinical psychology, builds upon students’ prior knowledge of psychology, especially personality and abnormal psychology and research methods. Students will learn about the primary interrelated activities of non-academic clinical psychologists - assessment and intervention - and some of the various theoretical perspectives from which these activities are approached. A main objective of the course is to give students a sense of how clinical psychologists, guided by contemporary theoretical models of assessment and treatment, practice their craft in a variety of roles and settings. We will also consider important current issues in the profession, such as ethics in clinical practice, working with people from diverse backgrounds, the structure of the mental health care system, and graduate training.
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PSY 338: Sports and Exercise Psychology
Dr. Ruth Hall TF 10:00-11:50 or TF 12:00-1:50
Prerequisite: PSY 101
The purpose of PSY338 is to understand the psychological components of exercise and sport. Exercise and sport psychology is the study and the application of the mental aspects of exercise (e.g., exercise adherence) and sport (e.g., performance enhancement). The ultimate goal of this course is to: 1) gain an understanding of the importance of exercise - both the mental and physical aspects of exercise; and 2) explore the importance of the mental aspects of sport in order to become a more effective competitor. The first third of the course will focus on the benefits of exercise and the challenge of exercise adherence. The last two thirds of the course will cover the following topics: goal setting, motivation, attention and concentration, anxiety and relaxation, imagery/mental rehearsal and peak performance. As part of the course, you will have the goal of participating in some formal run, walk, skate, weight lifting, etc. activity at the end of the semester. In fact we will sponsor a 5k and a 10k run on campus for those of you who have not identified an activity in the larger community. You will pair up with at least one other class member and work your goals and your activities together. Each person will be responsible for their ongoing journal documenting their preparation for their goal. The course assignments include maintaining a journal, a paper on a topic in sport or exercise and as well as your participation in a group project that involves your paper.
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PSY 340: Health Psychology
Dr. Daniella Muller R 5:30-8:20
Prerequisites: PSY 101, and either PSY 212 or a college-level biology course
Throughout this course students will explore the ways in which biology, psychology and social context influence health and illness. Specific topics that will be covered in the course include stress management, addiction, coping strategies, pain management and health promotion. One of the goals of the course is to learn more effective ways of improving overall mental and physical health.
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PSY 343: Behavioral Pharmacology of Drugs of Abuse
Dr. Margaret Martinetti W 9-11:50
Prerequisite: PSY 212
This course explores the pharmacological and behavioral events associated with several drugs of abuse including cocaine, nicotine, alcohol, opiates, hallucinogens, and caffeine, as well as other drugs such as nitrous oxide, DXM, and anabolic steroids. We will also review the neurobiology of drug-taking behavior and explore how behavioral principles have been used to study drug abuse and develop treatments. We will include an examination of historical, economic, and cultural variables in our approach. Learning activities include small and large group discussion, student-led discussion of current drug abuse topics, and preparation of a literature review paper on a topic of your choosing.
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PSY 350: Psychology of Women
Dr. Karen Howe MR 2:00-3:50
Prerequisite: Three credits of psychology
Course Attribute:
Gender
In this course we will examine various aspects of women’s lives, exploring ways in which the social construction of gender influences women throughout the life cycle. While a range of topics will be examined, we will have particularly in-depth focus on cultural representations of women, body image, motherhood, and mental health issues. Throughout the course we will also explore ways in which ethnic/racial identity and issues influence women. Learning activities will include various projects and written assignments, exams, and presentations.
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PSY 364: Industrial Psychology
Dr. Gregory Smiles R 5:30-8:20
Prerequisite: PSY 101
Industrial psychology is the study of theory and techniques related to understanding, predicting, and managing human behavior within organizations. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the content areas of Industrial Psychology and the application of psychological theory to organizational issues.
Key methodologies emphasized in the course include: job analysis, recruitment, selection and validation, performance management, training and development and employment law.
While each area of Industrial Psychology that could stand alone as an advanced course, the topics intertwine and both influence and are influenced by each other. Thus, the course aims to broaden the knowledge base of students but also enable them to see the interconnections between topics. “Hands-on” experiences will provide students the opportunity to apply the theories learned in class to real-life workplace problems.
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PSY 366: Personnel Selection & Placement
Dr. Samantha Chau M 5:30-8:20
Prerequisite: PSY 203 or ECON 231
Selection is one of the most important applications of I/O Psychology. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to assessment tools as well as the organizational and legal issues in personnel selection. The course begins with an examination of job analysis, reliability, test validity, fairness, and utility. Students will utilize research, statistical, and writing skills in a variety of assignments related to these topic areas. The other focus of the course is to provide as much “hands-on” experience as possible with various selection tools such as cognitive ability tests, personality measures, interviews, assessment center exercises, work samples, reference checks, resumes, biographical inventories, and integrity tests. The course is a valuable learning experience for students in any major or focus because of the applicability of the material to seeking and securing a job or position in graduate school after college.
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Psychology 370: Developmental Seminar: Child Therapy
Professor Cara Natale W 5:30-8:20
Prerequisite: PSY 220
This course will introduce basic counseling methods and apply them to a number of child therapies. We will explore various modes of play therapy, such as child-centered play therapy and psychodynamic play therapy, and look at their use in treating different disorders and life challenges experienced in childhood. Students will build off of basic knowledge of child development and psychological theories.
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PSY 370: Developmental Seminar: Gender and Racial Stereotyping
Dr. Julie Hughes W 9-11:50
Prerequisite: PSY 121 & PSY 220
Course Attribute:
Gender & Race
This course is an advanced introduction to the psychological study of children’s and adults’ gender and racial attitudes. We will begin by discussing the definition of gender and racial attitudes and their general importance within society. Next, we will examine the acquisition and developmental trajectories of gender and racial attitudes in children. A heavy emphasis will be placed on understanding the major theoretical perspectives on the acquisition of gender and racial attitudes. We will also carefully examine what is known about the effects of individuals’ gender and racial attitudes on their social behaviors, vocational goals, memory, and other outcomes. A section will also be devoted to racial and gender attitude change and to policies surrounding race and gender.
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PSY 371: Cognitive Seminar: Gender Gap in Science
Dr. Lisa Grimm T 5:30-8:20
Prerequisite: PSY 214
Course Attribute:
Gender
This course will examine the gender gap in science from different theoretical perspectives. We will start by examining the state of the gap and historical trends. Then, we will discuss different possible explanations and solutions, and evaluate the strength of each theoretical perspective. For example, we will discuss sociocultural factors (e.g., peers, family, stereotypes, beliefs about ability, and gender roles), biological factors (e.g., hormones, including prenatal effects, and brain anatomy and physiology), cognitive factors (e.g., spatial and mathematical abilities), and evolutionary factors.
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PSY 373: Counseling and Clinical Seminar: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Dr. David Krauss W 9-11:50
Prerequisites: PSY 121, and PSY 216 or PSY 217
This course, an introduction to cognitive-behavior therapy, expands upon what you have learned about cognitive and behavior therapy theory and techniques in previous psychology courses. You will learn more about some of the strategies and techniques cognitive-behavioral practitioners use to evaluate and treat anxiety; such as relaxation training, assertiveness training, stress inoculation, cognitive restructuring, applied behavioral analysis, and contingency management. Much of this course will involve learning by doing. You will be asked to practice and apply these strategies and techniques to your own life experiences both in class and through weekly homework assignments. This will include reading and completing exercises from one or two popular self-help books. Active in-class participation, including group work, sharing homework assignments with the class, and in-class presentations will help you to learn the most from this course. We will also learn more about research design and analysis by collecting and analyzing data in class. We will consider important professional issues such working with diverse populations and ethics in clinical practice.
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PSY 373: Counseling and Clinical Seminar: Introduction to Helping Professions
Elizabeth M. Collier, M.S., GMS MR 2-3:50
Prerequisites: PSY 121, and PSY 216 or PSY 217
This seminar course will give an introduction to what it means to work in the helping professions for students who are planning a career in clinical psychology, human services, counseling, social work, family therapy, couples therapy, school counseling, drug and alcohol counseling, or pastoral care.
In this class we will be looking at what counselors do, but also how they think and feel, the struggles and anxieties of beginning counselors, the importance of understanding oneself, how to build and maintain a therapeutic relationship, exploring presenting problems/complaints and collecting meaningful information, the use of appropriate questions and language, and how to move from insight to action. The material will also cover the social, cultural and ethnic differences in clients, and how these differences impact the counseling relationship.
The course has an experiential component and students will be expected to participate in simulated counseling sessions where they will have an opportunity to experience what it feels like to be a counselor, as well as a client. The focus of each activity will center on the basic core helping skills and basic interventions that will provide a means to help others in a positive way – making a difference - one life at a time. The lectures and activities will help conceptualize the major frameworks from which these skills and interventions evolve.
Requirements for this course include a journal, which will be kept throughout the semester, reflective activities, homework assignments, reading assignments, application exercises, student/group presentations and a term paper focusing on a critical issue pertaining to the helping professions. There will also be a mid-term and a final exam. Prerequisites: Psych 121, 216, 217
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PSY 374: I/O Seminar: Performance Management
Dr. Jason Dahling MR 5:30-8:20
Prerequisite: PSY 299 or permission of instructor
Performance management is the process of planning and improving individual performance. This course focuses on how managers can work with subordinates to set motivating objectives, provide supportive and developmental feedback over time, and accurately appraise performance. Specific topics covered in the course include goal setting theory, multi-source feedback, coaching and mentoring programs, and controversial issues in performance appraisal, such as the use of forced ranking and punishment-free systems. Additionally, students will become familiar with the development and process of conducting performance appraisals, and they will have the opportunity to critique and improve a performance appraisal instrument for a real organization.
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PSY 375: Social Psychology Seminar: Psychology and Diversity
Dr. Shaun Wiley W 5:30-8:20
Prerequisites: PSY 121 & 1 foundation course
This course will introduce you to issues that characterize diverse societies and will present analyses of these issues from a social psychological perspective. We will read research and theory about the impact of different models of diversity on self and identity, interpersonal and intergroup relations, creativity and critical consciousness. Acknowledging that diversity is almost always experienced in the form of unequal power relations, we will also consider the effects of discrimination and inequality on the disadvantaged and the privileged, and we will examine factors that can reduce prejudice and improve intergroup relations. Through class discussions and presentations, reflection papers, and a final project, you will be expected to apply what we learn to your everyday lives and to current social issues.
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PSY 375: Social Psychology Seminar: Classic and Contemporary Issues in Social Psychology
Dr. Jarret Crawford M 5:30-8:20
Prerequisites: PSY 121 & 1 foundation course
This course addresses the social aspects of human behavior. Social psychology includes topics such as social perception, attitudes and attitude change, intergroup relations and prejudice, conformity, helping, and aggression, as well as emerging topics in the fields of social neuroscience, political psychology, evolutionary psychology, moral psychology, and existential psychology. In this class, you will learn about each of these topics by reading classic and contemporary research and theory papers in social psychology.
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Psy 383: Counseling Clinical Field Study Seminar
Dr. Jeanine Vivona TF 2:00-3:20
Prerequisites: PSY 216 and PSY 217
PSY383 meets the field experience requirement of the Counseling & Clinical Specialization, and thus is strongly recommended for students in that specialization; however, the course is open to all students. PSY383 involves two components: regular class meetings and an individual field placement. Each student works approximately 8 hours per week at an individual field placement, providing direct services and supporting the work of mental health professionals at the site. Each student also meets regularly with a supervisor at the site. During class meetings, students share their individual field experiences with each other, and explore common and unique challenges of counseling and clinical work. Assigned readings and other assignments are designed to build practical skills, and to foster integration of academic and experiential learning. The learning in this course provides a foundation for considering whether a career in the helping professions meets one’s individual career aspirations. The hands-on field experience is also viewed favorably by potential employers and graduate programs.
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PSY 470: Psychology and the Media
Dr. Ruth Hall W 9:00-11:50
Prerequisite: PSY 299
As we all are well aware, the media (e.g., television, internet, newspapers and magazines, books, music, radio, advertising, film) is a powerful medium that influences our decision making and our ideas about ourselves and the world around us. This course will focus on the media in our lives and the role that psychology plays in the media. Included in our exploration will be the media’s perspective in relation to politics, violence, gender, race, humor, immigration and other topics of interest to the class. Bring your enthusiasm and your ideas. We will focus on the influence of the media on young adulthood and beyond. Those of you who are interested in children and the media should take Dr. Graham’s course.
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PSY 470: Happiness
Dr. Chu Kim-Prieto TF 12:30-1:50
Prerequisite: PSY 299
Is happiness a box of chocolates? Would you really be happy if only you could achieve a higher GPA? Earn a little more money? Lose a little weight? In this course, we will review the scientific evidence regarding the antecedents and consequences of happiness, as well as the diverse ways in which people have defined and measured happiness, to come to an evidence-based understanding of happiness. We will also closely examine the latest research on the science of happiness, with focus on topics such as flow states, self-determination, goal achievement, and affect balance. In addition, we will consider the varying role that our genetic make-up, biology, neurobiology, individual differences, and society play in forging our happiness.
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PSY 470: Behavioral Economics
Dr. John Ruscio TF 10:00-11:20
Prerequisite: PSY 299
Whereas standard economic theory assumes that people make rational decisions that maximize their interests, psychological research has demonstrated that under many circumstances we do not. Instead, our decisions can be influenced by many factors, including cognitive limitations (e.g., the capacity of working memory, the precision of mental arithmetic) and biases (e.g., selectively recalling information consistent with our beliefs, applying double standards of evidence). The relatively new field of behavioral economics uses psychological research to understand and improve economic decision making. In this course, we will examine behavioral economic principles such as loss aversion, mental accounting, the status quo bias, the endowment effect, and the sunk-cost fallacy that shed light on important decisions made not only in professional contexts, but also in our everyday lives. Through reading, discussion, and writing, we will examine the implications of behavioral economic principles for important issues such as the reform of educational and health care systems, responding to environmental concerns such as climate change, providing assistance to those in need, determining what constitutes “fair pay,” and the balance between individual freedom and government authority that best promotes human welfare.
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PSY 470: Language: Clinical, Developmental, and Neuroscience Perspectives
Dr. Jeanine Vivona TF 12:30-1:50
Prerequisite: PSY 299
In this course, we will explore some of the many interesting and important questions about language. For example, what is the role of language in psychological treatment? How does talking cure? During language development, how do words become connected to both cognitive schemas and sensorimotor experiences? What brain mechanisms are associated with the processing of written and spoken language? What can knowledge of the brain teach us about the structure and functions of language? Over the course of the semester, each member of the class will develop a major paper in which different ideas about language are developed, contrasted, and/or critiqued. If you are interested in investigating the powers of language from the perspectives of clinical psychology, developmental psychology, or neuroscience, this is the Senior Experience for you.
