PSYCHOLOGY

An introduction to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, including major approaches and methodologies. The course samples a broad range of topics, including biological foundations, development, learning, cognition, personality, abnormal psychology and social behavior. Meets the social science requirement.

This course explores the development of skills essential to critical evaluation of behavioral research. The emphasis is on understanding scientific method, research, methodologies and statistical analysis

An introduction to the simpler problems of statistical inference; descriptive statistics, probability distributions, estimation of parameters and level of significance, regression and correlation. This course may not be completed for additional credit by students who have completed MATH 226. Prerequisite: Pass (MATH 105 or above) or ((pass MATH 095 or ACT math score ≥ 19) and pass MATH 100) or ACT math score ≥ 24 or an alternative placement as approved by the math department or instructor approval.

An analysis of cognitive processes, including attention, perception, concept formation, language, memory, problem solving and decision making. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An introduction to the basic principles of learning and behavior in human and nonhuman animals with emphasis on applications of Pavlovian conditioning, instrumental conditioning, and basic memory processes. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

This course presents the social aspects of human behavior, including personal perception, social cognition, attitude formation and change, attribution, prosaically behavior and interpersonal attraction. Same as SOC 310. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or PSY 190.

A survey of the major theories of the nature and development of personality. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

A survey of the major classifications of psychopathology, including conceptual approaches to the understanding of psychopathology, etiology and treatment. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

This course explores the relation of biological function and human behavior; the role of genetic, hormonal and neurological factors in intelligence, sex differences, biological rhythms and emotional disorders. Disturbances produced by agents such as drugs and disease are studied. Does not satisfy the general education science requirement. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

A review of the major theories that attempt to explain motivated behavior from a physiological, cognitive, social, environmental and/or learning point of view. Application of motivation theories to organizations, education, sports and daily life. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

This course focuses on how individuals grow and change from conception to adolescence. It addresses the biological factors that exist at birth, the psychosocial factors that affect changes and the resulting developmental stages. Prerequisite: PSY 190. Meets the social science requirement.

This course takes the learner through the developmental stages of the human life cycle from the end of adolescence to the advanced stages of aging covering the physical changes, the social challenges and the psychological growth of an individual during those years. Prerequisite: PSY 190. Meets the social science requirement.

This course offers a multidisciplinary view of death and dying in individuals, families, and across cultures. This course will explore personal and societal atitudes, social pratices and institutions that facilitate and constrain grief and mourning.Prerequisite: PSY190

This course focuses on personal, interpersonal and societal factors in the human aging process. Emphasis is on family, community and governmental responsibility in defining and resolving problems of the aged in a modern industrial society. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or PSY 190.

Supervised field experience in a selected setting earning 120 hours. Consent of faculty and written reports are required. Prerequisites: PSY 190, ENG 102 or ENG 201, 30 or fewer credits remaining to be completed through Upper Iowa University, and consent of academic advisor

A capstone project intended to integrate the general education learning outcomes with the learning outcomes in the major demonstrating baccalaureate level achievement. Prerequisites: ENG 102 or ENG 201 and 30 or fewer credits remaining to be completed through UIU.

A course designed to apply psychological approaches to normative events during life’s developmental stages, with a focus on environmental factors and the psychology of stress in a changing world. Meets the social science requirement.

A survey of the professions, programs and agencies involved in the delivery of human services. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An analysis of group behavior in small and large groups of various types. The focus is on social interaction in the formation and operation of groups, and on the social system’s approach to understanding group behavior. Same as SOC 232. Prerequisite: PSY 190 or SOC 110. Meets the social science requirement.

An overview of conflict resolution and the mediation process as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Learning activities— conceptual and experiential in nature—are designed to promote an integration in the areas of problem solving behavior, skill development and personal awareness. Prerequisite: PSY 190. Meets the social science requirement.

An analysis of the changing cultural notions and social realities regarding male/female roles and relationships. Topics may include: cross-cultural research concerning gender differences; the role of various socializing agents in shaping sexual identities; and the effects of gender differences on political and economic processes. Same as SOC 260. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or PSY 190. Meets the social science requirement.

An introduction to the biological, psychological and social aspects of human sexuality. The course includes a study of sexuality in relation to the life cycle.

The effects of psychoactive drugs are studied in this course, as well as the origins of substance abuse, characteristics of substance abusers, and consequences for the individual, family and society. Approaches to substance abuse treatment are discussed. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or PSY 190.

This course investigates issues, theories, and research findings that primarily concern women’s psychological and sexual lives. It explores topics such as gender roles, feminism, sexism, sexuality, personality variables, cognitive abilities, education, violence against women, and mental health. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An in-depth analysis of the theories, methods, and strategies for managing stress in our day-to-day functioning. Students will learn the conceptual and operational definitions of stress, be exposed to the psychophysiological and psychological responses to stress, and trained in specific evidence-based stress reduction strategies they will be able to use in working with their clients. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An overview of helping techniques, theory, and practice. Learning activities—conceptual and experiential in nature—are designed to promote growth in the areas of skill, development, and personal awareness. May not be taken by learners who have completed PSY 354. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An analysis of individual, group and cultural influences on human behavior. The emphasis is on contrasting levels of analysis and application to a variety of environmental settings. Note: Some background in both psychology and sociology is strongly recommended. Same as SOC 383. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or PSY 190.

Focuses on the psychological and physiological human response to disasters. Using clinical research and case histories, this course studies normal and abnormal psychological reactions, the recovery process and principles of mental healthcare for victims of mass disasters. Differences between natural and man-made disasters are examined and factors that either worsen or mitigate the traumatizing after-effects are reviewed. Psychological aspects of Weapons of Mass Destruction of Liberal Arts Curriculum Committee before it is offered, and it must address one or more Major Outcomes within the discipline.

A study of the relationship between the individual worker and the work environment. Emphasis is on the exploration and application of the most influential theories. Topics include organizational dynamics, work motivation, job satisfaction, personnel selection and training, and work group influences. Prerequisite: PSY 190.

An introduction to the assumptions and techniques of psychological assessment. Prerequisites: PSY 190 and MATH 220.

An analysis of issues and ethical problems involved in the helping professions and programs. Prerequisite: PSY 190.