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(3 credits)
This course overviews the foundations of psychology as the field applies to everyday life. The physical and mental aspects of psychology are traced through lifespan development with emphasis on psychological health and wellness. Further study focuses on personality; thinking, learning and memory; motivation and emotions; and gender and sexuality. Based in various historical traditions, the course is set in the context of contemporary psychological principles.
Describe the subfields of psychology.
Explain the five major perspectives in the field of psychology.
Identify research methods used by psychologists.
Identify major ethical issues in the field of psychology research.
Identify the structure and functions of the brain.
Describe sensation and perception.
Recognize behaviors associated with states of consciousness.
Compare classical and operant conditioning.
Summarize cognitive approaches to learning.
Explain the three-system approach to memory.
Compare different approaches to motivation.
Summarize the varieties of human needs.
Classify the range of emotions.
Outline the milestones of physical, social, and cognitive development during childhood.
Summarize the major transitions that characterize adolescence.
Explain social development in adulthood.
Identify the cognitive changes that occur in late adulthood.
Compare approaches to personality.
Explain behavioral assessments.
Summarize the theories of intelligence.
Describe perspectives on normal versus abnormal behavior.
Identify the major classifications of psychological disorders.
Explain treatment approaches for psychological disorders.
Explain social cognition.
Determine ways to reduce discrimination.
Compare the concepts of like and love.
Describe how people cope with stress.