338 Neurobiology of Psychopathology
Recent advances in neuroscience have led to the
description of the biological correlates of many psychological
disorders, including schizophrenia, depression and anxiety disorders.
In this seminar course, recent research findings are used to examine
the connections between changes in brain neurobiology, biochemistry
and physiology and the symptoms of these psychopathologies. Students
will present information on the techniques used, and are responsible
for guiding discussion of published studies.
Prerequisite: Psychology 238 OR Neuro 234 and
Psychology 247
This seminar explores current research and theory, practices, and policies regarding child development from birth to age three. Students learn about prenatal development, birth and the newborn, physical development, the infant-caregiver relationship, infant cognition, and language development. Students also consider evidence about childcare, early intervention, and the influence of media and interactive toys designed for very young children. Cross-cultural comparisons highlight issues of diversity, and site visits support readings and classroom discussions. Prerequisite: Psychology 230, and 241. Offered most years.
What is the mind-body connection? We explore the major issues, theories, and interventions in health psychology. Students review evidence for the impact of psychological and behavioral factors on the immune system and health. Psychosocial approaches to the major diseases, their rationale, and the evidence supporting these interventions are examined. Introductory biology and psychopathology strongly recommended. Prerequisite: Psychology 230, 247, and 238 or Biology 123 or 125. Offered most years.
390 Sem: Intimate Relationships
Why do some intimate relationships survive and thrive while others falter? What can we do to maintain or enhance our intimate relationships? Why should we expect to encounter conflict in relationships, and how can we deal with conflict in a manner that will improve our relationships? This seminar will focus on theory and research involving the formation, maintenance, and dissolution of close relationships. Although we will discuss close friendships and familial relationships, the primary focus is romantic relationships.
396 Research: Emotional Development
This course provides a comprehensive research opportunity, including an introduction to relevant background material, technical instruction, identification of a meaningful project, and data collection. The topic is determined by the faculty member in charge of the course and may relate to his/her research interests. Prerequisite: determined by individual instructor. Offered based on department decision. Depending on course topic, may count toward the neuroscience concentration
This seminar investigates "the good life," exploring what psychology can tell us about human flourishing and psychological well-being. Empirical evidence is examined to understand some of the best aspects of life, such as the function of positive emotions, the role of traits in well-being, sources of meaning and life satisfaction, and character strength and virtue. Personality and sociocultural factors are emphasized in this exploration of the positive potentials of human life. Prerequisites: Psychology 230, and 244 or 249. Offered most years.
375 Clinical and Counseling Psychology
This course examines several major theoretical perspectives on psychotherapy. Students review empirically supported treatments for specific clinical disorders, as well as "nonspecific" factors that affect the therapeutic process. Students explore ethical and legal challenges related to psychotherapy delivery, as well as multicultural and other diversity issues. Course format is primarily discussion-based. This course is only open to juniors and seniors and is offered most years. Prerequisites: Psychology 230, and 247 or 244.
390 Sem: Cognitive Neuroscience
This course will introduce you to the (sometimes) strange and (always) fascinating world of Cognitive Neuroscience. Cognitive Neuroscience investigates the biological bases of higher order cognition and complex human behavior (or more simply put, how the brain enables the mind). In this course we will embark upon a journey to understand how exactly this grey, mushy, three-pound lump of tissue in our skulls makes us who we are as humans. Discussion topics will include the methodologies of cognitive neuroscience, perception, attention, learning, memory, language, executive function, emotion, development, social cognition, and consciousness. Prerequisite: Psych 125 and 230