PSYU 101 Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to the processes, principles, and problems and applications of psychology. Topics include the brain and nervous system, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, personality, social psychology and psychopathology. 3 credits.
PSYU 201 Critical Thinking in Psychology
Study methods of empirical and theoretical evaluation of psychological facts, assertions, research studies and theories. Development of a discrimination model setting the appropriate standards to be applied to differing forms of psychological assertions. Study of common fallacies misleading students of psychological processes and development of a critical thinking paradigm reducing the probability of common errors in thinking. 3 credits.
PSYU 202 History and Systems of Psychology
Discussion and evaluation of psychology's historical roots and the influences and the people that have contributed to its present form. 3 credits.
PSYU 203 Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences
(MATU 203 meets this requirement). An introduction to statistics for the behavioral, social and health sciences. Both the calculation and interpretation of statistical indices and the application of these measures are emphasized. Course includes an introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics, the rationale of hypothesis testing and a survey of the common parametric and nonparametric statistical tests. 3 credits.
PSYU 302 General Psychology Seminar
An initial seminar course providing in-depth immersion into the discipline of psychology. A comprehensive survey of the field of psychology, covering major topics in psychological theory and its application in the fields of mental health, education, and related disciplines. 3 credits.
PSYU 304 Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences
Prerequisites: PSYU 101, PSYU 203. May be taken concurrently with PSYU 203. An introduction to the principles and procedures involved in behavioral sciences research. The scientific method and its application to psychological inquiry are emphasized. A student successfully completing this course will possess: (1) a broad understanding of the process and outcomes of psychology; (2) an appreciation of the strengths and limitations of psychological science; (3) an understanding of the ethical considerations inherent in psychological science; and (4) the ability to consume and communicate the process and outcomes of psychological science using the publication format of the American Psychological Association. 3 credits.
PSYU 310 Psychology of Learning
An examination of the theoretical and methodological foundations of human learning. Particular emphasis is placed on an evaluation of the major paradigms involved in contemporary concepts of the learning process. Some emphasis is given to the application of behavioral principles to daily life. 3 credits.
PSYU 315 Sensation and Perception
An introduction to the sensory system and the perceptual basis of our experience. General topics include psychophysics, the visual system and the nonvisual sensory systems. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the interaction between the anatomy of the sensory system and the transduction of sensory stimuli into meaningful perceptual experiences. 3 credits.
PSYU 317 Cognitive Psychology
A survey of the discipline of cognitive psychology, the study of mental processes and their underlying biology. Students examine attentional processing, encoding, memory, mental imagery and decision-making processes. Other topics addressed include consciousness, creativity, and methods for measuring information processing. 3 credits.
PSYU 319 Motivation and Emotion
This survey course in human motivation covers the biological sources of motivation and emotion as well as the learned components of our behaviors. This wide ranging subject comprises a wealth of scientific information explaining the "why" of human behavior. Topics covered include physiological and cognitive foundations of eating, sleep, sex, achievement, affiliation, drug use, stress, aggression, love, emotional expression and emotion management. Study of the theoretical, physiological, and behavioral constructs underlying the processes of motivation and emotion. Particular emphasis is placed on methods for studying emotion and application of the principles of motivation and emotion. 3 credits.
PSYU 322 Theories of Personality
This course provides an evaluative review of the major theories of personality, emphasizing the structure, dynamics, behavior and development of the normal and abnormal personality. Theories include Freudian, neo-Freudian, cognitive, somatic, social learning, and humanistic explanations for individual differences. 3 credits.
PSYU 323 Child Development
This course covers physical, cognitive and psychosocial development from conception to adolescence. Both theoretical and applied aspects of development, parenting and teaching children are emphasized. 3 credits.
PSYU 324 Adolescence
This course presents the major theoretical models of adolescent development and biological maturation, while addressing the issues of identity, peers, family, school, sexuality, morality, substance abuse and psychological problems. The historical nature of adolescent experience is contrasted with the experience of today's teenager. 3 credits.
PSYU 328 Abnormal Psychology
A systematic study of emotional disturbance and the major classifications of mental illness from the perspective of symptoms/behaviors, etiology, diagnosis and treatment. 3 credits.
PSYU 333 Physiological Psychology
Prerequisite: PSYU 101. An investigation of the relationship between brain and behavior. Students will study the structure and function of the nervous system, including the biological bases of psychopathology and normal function. 3 credits.
PSYU 336 Social Psychology
(Same as SOCU 345). Discussion and analysis of the relationship between culture, grouplife, social structure, and human behavior; emphasis upon the dialogue between the individual and the social collective. Topics include group behavior, attitudes, stereotypes, nonverbal communication, health psychology, aggression, social perceptions, relationships and helping behavior. 3 credits.
PSYU 348 Psychological Approaches to Literature
A study of psychological theories of the 20th century and their influences on the criticism of literature and/or film. Psychologists such as Freud, Jung, and Lacan will be studied in connection with their approaches to textual analysis. The course may also focus on such psychological movements as Gestalt, Behaviorism, and archetypal analysis as they have affected understanding of literature and/or film. 3 credits.
PSYU 391 Youth At-Risk
(Same as SOCU 391 and CJCU 391) This course will introduce students to various models, theories, and intervention of children and adolescents considered "at-risk". Topics covered include, but may not be limited to the following: a) sociocultural factors in defining and influencing behavior; b) psychological models both biological and ecological that interact to shape behavior; c) types of at-risk categories including school dropouts, substance use and addiction, teenage pregnancy, antisocial behavior, delinquency, gangs, school shooters, and youth suicide; and d) specific types of clinical abnormal behavior including anxiety, mood, and impulse control disorders; e) theoretical and practical considerations related to community and school interventions.
PSYU 395 Topic Courses in Psychological Process
An examination of selected topics in the area of psychological processes and the foundations of psychological understandings of human behavior. Syllabi for additional topic areas must be approved by Department Chair and Curriculum & Academic Committee. Course may be repeated for credit. 3 credits.
Eros, Agape, Philio: The Psychology of Love
This course will examine common ideas and theories about the psychology/philosophy of love. It will focus on three different aspects/types of love, including eros (romantic love), agape (unconditional or God's love) and philio (friendship or companionate love) and how they are defined, expressed, and impact individuals psychologically. Students will examine their own ideas/beliefs about the nature of love and its impact in their lives, as well as examine cultural determinants of love and historical perspectives about what love is. How love fits into and is expressed in modern American culture and how this affects people's psychological well-being will also be examined.
Psychology, Ethics and the Law
Issues in ethical clinical practice, resolving ethical dilemmas, protecting vulnerable parties and forensic evaluations will be considered. Research in eyewitness testimony and jury decisions will be evaluated.
Pediatric Neuropsychology
An introduction and overview of pediatric neuropsychology emphasizing brain-behavior relationships in children. Biological, environmental, psychological, and developmental variables that affect neurobehavioral outcomes will be addressed. The following childhood disorders will be covered: Hydrocephalus, epilepsy, Tourette's syndrome, brain tumors, closed-head injury, meningitis, diabetes, leukemia, sickle cell disease, autism, and human immunodeficiency.
PSYU 402 Quantitative Data Analysis
This class is about doing social and psychological research. Each student will experience an in-depth introduction to the actual practice of behavioral sciences research. Students will build their own databases and acquire skills using the most common software available to analyze data. Students analyze data from a national survey of Americans and make original discoveries about the nature of social life. In addition to acquiring the skills with software and conceptual tools to analyze real data, students will be guided in the proper formats for a written quantitative research report. 3 credits.
PSYU 415 Sports Psychology
An examination of the principles of psychology as they apply to an understanding of sports-related issues. Topics of interest to the sports world will be discussed according to theoretical constructs of psychology. The class is not designed to include any physical activity. It is designed for students interested in coaching at any level, athletes, and those interested in a more comprehensive analysis of issues underlying sports. 3 credits.
PSYU 416 Human Communications Workshop
A workshop course designed to assist the group members to identify and understand those factors in addition to "the facts" which influence the perceptions on which communication/interaction is based. The workshop will address issues related to interpersonal awareness, group interaction, the conceptualization of interpersonal relationships, and communication skills. 3 credits.
PSYU 418 Community Mental Health
A survey of major problems of mental health in the community, includes field trips to selected facilities where individuals and families may go for help. 3 credits.
PSYU 421 Cross-Cultural Psychology
An introduction to major issues and sessioninology used in cross-cultural psychology, an interdisciplinary approach that uses models and research methods from psychology, anthropology, and sociology. The course emphasizes a comparative approach. 3 credits.
PSYU 428 Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Overview of the profession and practice of clinical psychology. The course will survey the field's history, clinical training, assessment procedures, therapeutic interventions, research approaches, ethical and legal issues, areas of specialization (i.e. forensic, behavioral medicine and child), and current issues and trends. 3 credits.
PSYU 432 Introduction to Psychological Measurement
Prerequisites: PSYU 203. Concepts of test construction, standardization, validity, reliability as applied to a wide range of psychological instruments of intelligence, interests, values and personality. 3 credits.
PSYU 436 Health Psychology
An in-depth study of theories of health psychology, illness behavior, and behavioral medicine. The mind-body relationship and health treatment models (e.g., managed care) will be explored. 3 credits.
PSYU 440 Human Sexuality
A descriptive and empirical approach to understanding human sexuality. Physiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors influencing healthy human sexual expression will be emphasized. Gender identity, sex roles, variations in sexual behavior, love and attraction, and basic treatments for sexual dysfunction will be included. 3 credits.
PSYU 444 Psychology of the Lesbian and Gay Experience
A systematic study of the psychological issues affecting lesbians and gay men. The course integrates the most recent research-based information with life experiences of lesbian/gay people in such areas as development, psychosocial identity, relationships and clinical services. The course emphasizes an affirmative approach and is appropriate for gay, lesbian and heterosexual students. 3 credits.
PSYU 448 Psychology in Literature and Film
A study of the intriguing cross-influences between literature and psychological theory. Particular attention will be given to the works of literature and film that have provided basic materials for psychologists and to the reflective impact of psychological theory upon writers. Students will examine the use made by modern poetry, drama, fiction, and film of such psychological concepts as archetypes, unconscious processes, the dipal complex, role-playing, and symbol. 3 credits.
PSYU 450 Introduction to Counseling
An introduction and overview of professional counseling. Selected theories will be evaluated briefly and methods of their application to specialties such as group, family, marriage, child chemical dependence and crisis intervention will be emphasized. Attention will be given to specific communicative skills in counseling, to ethical and legal issues and to strategies for counselor self-care. 3 credits.
PSYU 455 Family Systems and Dynamics
An exploration of a variety of theoretical orientations in the study of family systems. The theoretical foundations of such approaches to family counseling as structural, strategic, transgenerational, experiential and behavioral are studied. 3 credits.
PSYU 478 Senior Project/Thesis I
Prerequisites: PSYU 101, PSYU 203, and PSYU 304. Senior standing in psychology major or approval of the instructor. This course is the first semester of the senior project/thesis course. This course includes an in-depth didactic component together with extensive supervised experience in the development of a precise and complete research hypothesis and planning the proof of the hypothesis. Students will conduct a thorough review of the literature which leads to the hypothesis of the study or research question. At the course end, the student will have assembled a research proposal written in APA format including review of the literature, research hypothesis, and procedure section. This is the essential structure including references for her or his senior thesis/project. An Institutional Review Board (IRB) procedure must be followed and forms submitted to CUIRB for studies involving human/animal subjects. Approval of IRB must be obtained prior to research being conducted with humans/animals. 3 credits.
PSYU 479 Senior Project/Thesis II
Prerequisites: PSYU 101, PSYU 478, and senior standing in psychology major. The course content of Senior Project I is continued in this second semester of the senior project/thesis course. At the end of this semester, the student will demonstrate integration of what she or he has learned in psychology through the production of a seminal written product. Whether research manuscript or thesis, this product serves both as the crowning achievement of the student's education and as an example of her or his capability for graduate studies or professional achievement. An Institutional Review Board (IRB) procedure must be followed and forms submitted to CUIRB for studies involving human/animal subjects. Approval of IRB must be obtained prior to research being conducted with humans/animals. 3 credits.
PSYU 481 Organizational Psychology
The application of psychological methods and techniques to understand, evaluate, and maximize human behavior in industrial and other organizations. 3 credits.
PSYU 492 Intern Program: Fieldwork Practicum in Psychology
Prerequisites: Approval of academic advisor and internship supervisor. Supervised experience in an approved setting where psychological services are provided. Additional meetings, assigned readings and written evaluations of related readings and the field experience are required. Approval of academic advisor and Program Chair required. Graded pass/no pass. A student may take a maximum of 6 credits. 1-3 credits.
PSYU 495 Topic Courses in Psychological Application
An examination of selected topics in the area of psychological application and the foundations of psychological understandings of human behavior. Syllabi for additional topic areas must be approved by Department Chair and Curriculum & Academic Committee. Course may be repeated for credit. 3 credits.
Spirituality and Mental Health
A systematic study of the participation of religion and spiritual practices in the cultural construction of mental health, illness, diagnosis, and treatment. The course will present various models of consciousness and examine the reductionist, humanistic, dualistic, and monistic paradigms for mental health. Psychosomatic effects of spiritual systems and practices such as Shignon, Buddhism, Taoism, Vedanta, Yoga, Zen etc., will be analyzed in the context of the emerging reform in counseling and community mental health.
Psychological Aspects of Terrorism: Perpetrators, Victims, and the Public
Psychological Aspects of Terrorism is an upper division undergraduate level one-semester course that introduces the student to the psychological complexities of terror, terrorists, and terrorism. Through didactic presentation and student research, the course will focus upon understanding terrorism, its motivations, and the psychodynamics of its social, political, and economic substrata. The course will also examine the "corporate structure" of terrorist groups, both foreign and domestic, as well as the various behavior and character structures associated with individual terrorists. Finally, considerable attention will be directed towards discussion of the effects of terrorist acts upon the mental health of direct and indirect victims in addition to primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention.
Behavior Modification
Examination of theories, principles, and techniques integral to applied behavior analysis and how it is used to help in a myriad of psychological problems. The course will examine how behavioral methods are utilized in psychology, humanities, and social science fields. There will also be an exploration of the effects of practical behavior management in everyday life.
PSYU 496 Survey of Forensic Psychology
(Same as CJCU 530) This course introduces the student to the complex field of forensic psychology. The course focuses upon how the law has affected the practice of psychology, psychological research on legal issues and processes, and the functioning of psychology in a legal environment. The student will learn fundamental distinctions between psychology and law in areas such as epistemology, behavioral causation, methodology, criteria, principles, and expert approach to data. Numerous landmark cases will be reviewed that demonstrate the psychologist's role as expert witness, consultant, and amicus curiae. Special sections will focus upon the law in mental health practice as well as assessment of simulation and deception. 3 credits.
PSYU 499 Independent Study
Prerequisites: Approval of instructor, academic advisor, and Division Chair. Supervised independent study or research on a special problem or in a selected area of psychology. Open to junior and senior psychology majors who have a 3.0 GPA. A student may take a maximum of 6 credits. 1-3 credits.
PSYU 501 The Counseling Process
A professionally supervised experience in counseling and related activities. Experience also includes correlated reading, workshops, lecture, and group activities. 3 credits.
PSYU 508 Life Span Development/Aging and Long Term Care
Theories related to the entire life span from conception through childhood, adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, and late adulthood are reviewed. Students focus on issues of healthy development at different ages in domains such as play, school, relationships, parenting, work and retirement. Students also focus on issues that are salient to the aging population, including long-term care. In depth interviewing of one developmental stage is required. Meets legal requirements for Aging and Long Term Care (10 hours). 3 credits.
PSYU 511 Psychological Assessment
A study of the theory and practice of psychological assessment procedures including the clinical interview, administration and interpretation of objective measures of intelligence and personality and the writing of clinical reports. Specific emphasis is on the administration, scoring and interpretation of the latest versions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2/A and the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis. Fee: $25. 3 credits.
PSYU 532 Research and Bibliographic Methods
Students learn and practice the appropriate scientific methods of research leading to a bibliographic research in individual counseling and marriage and family therapy, culminating in a formal research proposal. 3 credits.
PSYU 533 Psychopharmacology
An in-depth examination of the behavioral and central nervous system effects of pharmacologic substance use and abuse and the application of such substances to the prevention and treatment of psychopharmocological and psychopathological dysfunction. 3 credits.
PSYU 541 Clinical Theories and Techniques of Marriage and Family Therapy
This graduate marriage and family therapy course is designed to study the major theoretical approaches to individual, marriage and family therapy. A major focus on family systems theory and therapy will be emphasized. In addition, students will study therapy from cognitive, behavioral and psychodynamic approaches, with a focus toward integration of these approaches in the conduct of therapy as a marriage and family therapist. 3 credits.
PSYU 556 Family Systems and Studies
This graduate marriage and family studies course provides fundamental introduction to the study of marriage and family systems theory. Theories and techniques of family therapy will be reviewed and practical application discussed. Major family therapy models will be studied in depth. Theoretical perspectives are presented through readings, lectures, videotapes, classroom presentations and student demonstrations. 3 credits.
PSYU 561 Marital Systems and Studies and Domestic Violence
This marital systems and studies course is designed to focus upon the systems approach to marriage therapy. Major marriage therapy theories will be studied and discussed. The structure of the marital therapy process, the role of the therapist, and techniques of marital therapy will be studied. The relation between marital dysfunction and other forms of psychopathology will be studied with particular emphasis placed on the unique assessment strategies necessary for conjoint evaluation and treatment. Clinical strategies, assessment, and intervention techniques for working with domestic violence will be studied. Students will master systems theory, assessment and treatment of marital dysfunction, diagnostic and treatment planning techniques. Meets legal requirements for Domestic Violence Training (15 hours). 3 credits.
PSYU 565 Child/Adolescent Psychopathology and Child Abuse Reporting
An examination of psychopathology in childhood and adolescence, with consideration of the major types of disturbances, assessment techniques and treatment approaches with children and adolescents. Behavioral observations, clinical-development interviews, non-directive and cognitive therapies, and techniques for family systems therapy are reviewed for each major category of psychopathology. Meets legal requirements for Child Abuse Assessment and Reporting (7 hours). 3 credits.
PSYU 570 Advanced Psychopathology and Diagnosis
Students take an empirical approach to the etiology and diagnosis of psychopathological disorders. 3 credits.
PSYU 575 Advanced Individual Counseling
Prerequisite: PSYU 570 or instructor's approval. A comprehensive overview of assessment strategies, counseling techniques, and behavioral strategies typically used in the individual counseling setting. Lecture topics include intake evaluations, treatment plan, proficient listening and counseling skills and effective behavioral and cognitive interventions. Video demonstrations will also be presented to enhance student understanding of applications and relevance to the counseling process. 3 credits.
PSYU 578 Ethical and Professional Issues
This course examines ethical, legal and professional issues relevant to the practice of marriage and family therapy. Ethical responsibilities, legal responsibilities and liabilities are discussed within the context of relevant state regulations, professional ethical codes and the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation. Ethical decision-making, commitment to the profession, and other socialization issues are emphasized. 3 credits.
PSYU 581 Assessment and Treatment of Sexual Disorders
Students examine normal sexual functioning and common types of sexual dysfunction and deviation which would be disclosed within a psychotherapy framework. Students learn counseling techniques effective in the development of satisfactory sexual functioning within a committed relationship. The criteria for appropriate choice of technique and appropriate professional consultations are particularly emphasized. 3 credits.
PSYU 586 Assessment and Treatment of Substance Abuse
An overview of current theoretical and clinical approaches to the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of alcoholism and other chemical dependencies. Students review current research and program design from a clinical perspective with the goal of increasing professional awareness and skills in treating the chemically dependent individual and/or family. 3 credits.
PSYU 613 Clinical Issues in Human Diversity
An advanced study of multicultural counseling emphasizing understanding and respect for the diversity of human beings, particularly with regard to matters of race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation. The course will analyze the cultural context of family, behavior, psychopathology, cultural strengths, assessment and psychotherapy. Utilization of mental health services by culture-specific groups will be addressed. Critical analysis will be given to ethnocentrism, racism, sexism, and heterosexism in society, psychology and traditional culture-bound assessment and psychotherapy approaches. The course features knowledge, skills and experiential components. 3 credits.
PSYU 617 Transition to Work and Career
This course focuses upon the process of career choice, mid-life career changes, employment projections and the problems unique to the underemployed. Links will be made to "marginalized workers" and employees with mental health problems. 3 credits.
PSYU 652 Theory and Practice of Group Counseling
Individually supervised master's thesis research students study the theory and procedures used in group therapy. Several major contemporary models will be examined, and both heterogeneous and homogenous therapy groups will be addressed. Both experiential and didactic methods will be used as instructional procedures. 3 credits.
PSYU 688/689/690 Practicum I, II, III
Prerequisites: Candidacy standing in the MFT or Counseling degree program and instructor's approval. The clinical experience of the master's degree candidate with an MFT or counseling emphasis. It is intended as the final preparation for entry into a career in the mental health field at the master's level. A total of 80 supervised direct counseling hours are required for each practicum. Graded on a pass/no pass basis. 3/3/3 credits.
PSYU 691 Practicum IV
Prerequisite: Candidacy standing in the MFT or Counseling degree program and faculty or program manager Approval. The clinical experience of the master's degree candidate with an MFT or counseling emphasis. It is intended as the final preparation for entry into a career in the mental health field at the master's level. This course is utilized for elective units or continuation of hours in the degree program. Graded on a pass/no pass basis. 1-3 credits.
PSYU 695 Advanced Topic Courses in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling Emphasis
Prerequisite: Graduate standing and approval of faculty advisor and instructor. Advanced supervised independent study on a special problem or in a selected area of marriage and family therapy/counseling emphasis. Syllabi must be submitted to Program Chair prior to enrollment in course. Chair will submit syllabi to Curriculum and Academic Committee. 3 credits.
PSYU 699 Independent Study
Advanced supervised independent study or research on a special problem or in a selected area. 1-3 credits.