College Catalog
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Course Descriptions
Applied Psychology
PSY100
Examination of selected principles of psychology as applied to everyday modern living. The science of psychology will be distinguished from "pop psychology". Other topics are drawn from a variety of applications of psychology, including learning and memory, stress and coping strategies, behavioral modification, interpersonal relationships, social influence, human development, psychological disorders, and psychotherapy. The course may be taken as a social science elective or as preparation for PSY 111. It cannot be substituted for PSY 111 as a prerequisite for other psychology classes. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) As needed.
General Psychology
PSY111
Introduction to the science of human behavior and mental processes. Students examine the relation between the nervous system and behavior, learning, perception, language, personality, intelligence, and psychopathology. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): RDG001 or Placement by Examination.
Abnormal Psychology
PSY201
Principal forms of mental and emotional disorders with emphasis on their causes, symptoms, and courses of treatment. By examining distorted or exaggerated behavior, students develop a clearer sense of normal behavior. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111.
Developmental Psychology
PSY203
Psychological development and change throughout the life span. Examines principles of child and adolescent development, genetic and environmental influences on the course of physical, motor, intellectual, emotional, social, and personality development. Adult issues of individual integrity, career pursuit, and intimacy are emphasized. Senescence and adjustment to aging are examined. Additional attention is devoted to the family lifecycle concept. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111.
Child Psychology
PSY210
Study of the phenomena of and interactions among physical, psychomotor, behavioral, cognitive, emotional, social, moral, and personality development from the prenatal period to the middle school years. By examining the data and theories of child development, students gain an understanding of normal and abnormal development useful in interactive settings with children. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111.
Educational Psychology
PSY231
Psychological principles and concepts applied to learning. Students explore intelligence and intelligence testing, cognitive development, learning, and memory, creativity, language and other relevant topics. These are applied to practical educational problems. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111. Spring Only.
Social Psychology
PSY241
Interaction of individuals in groups. Harmony and conflict within groups as well as between groups, group leadership and group controls, phenomena of imitation and suggestion. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111 or SOC111. As needed.
Psychology of Human Sexuality
PSY260
Examination of the psychological, biological and social factors that contribute to human sexuality. Based upon the belief that human beings wish to explore and to experience their sexuality in a holistic and responsible manner, the course covers such topics as human sexual development across the lifespan; the physiology and anatomy of reproduction; cross-cultural and historical perspectives about human sexuality; contemporary perspectives about human sexuality; sexual dysfunctions and therapeutic approaches to treatment of those dysfunctions; gender identity; gender roles and gender stratification as they relate to human sexuality; values clarification (including legal and ethical issues) related to human sexuality; and sexuality within the context of human intimate relationships. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111 or SOC111. As needed.
Gerontology and Aging
PSY266
Examination of the biological, social, and psychological aspects of aging as they affect the adaptation of the individual to the environment. The economic, political, and legal issues which affect the administration of human service organizations are studied. Emphasis on human service intervention with the elderly client. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111 or SOC111 or HSR111 or HSR115. As needed.
Behavior Modification
PSY320
Introduction to the basic principles of behavior change and their application in a variety of settings. The principles examined draw upon the areas of operant and classical conditioning, modeling, cognitive theory, and single-subject experimental methodology. Techniques based on these principles will be discussed, including shaping, contingency management, stimulus control, desensitization, modeling, self-destruction, and outcome evaluation. Various settings where these techniques have been applied will be considered, including home, school, industry, clinic, prison, and community. Ethical issues will also be explored. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): PSY111. As needed.
Advanced Gerontology
PSY366
Exploration of the psychological, social, and biological factors that affect aging in America today. Aging in earlier times, the demographics of aging in the future, and aging in other societies is examined to provide a broader perspective. Focus on practical information and provide an outlet for hands-on experiences. The Pennsylvania Department of Aging Options Assessment Form is used as a guide to explore the various areas of functioning which would impact independent or institutional living. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): HSR266 and PSY111 or PSY111 and PSY266. As needed.