Department of Psychology

Georg H. Eifert, Ph.D., Chair

Professors: Eifert, Flowers, Schandler, Scott;

Associate Professor: Brodbeck, Glynn, Pogi-Davis, Shears;

Assistant Professors: Brougham, Dana,Jr., Kuchenbecker, Peterson, Pincus.

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

The mission of the department of psychology is to help students acquire a broad–based knowledge in the field of psychology as an empirical science of human behavior.

The department of psychology at Chapman University offers undergraduate programs in general psychology and a master's–level graduate program in marriage and family therapy. The undergraduate curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, methods of psychological inquiry, psychology processes, and an evidence–based approach to the application of psychological principles to diverse areas of human behavior. Students are also encouraged to complete elective courses that provide practical fieldwork experience and independent research projects. Overall, the psychology undergraduate curriculum is designed for students who want to prepare for graduate study in psychology or related disciplines, for graduate study in fields where knowledge of human behavior would be beneficial, or for baccalaureate–level careers in human services or in psychological support settings.

Occupying Smith Hall, the department of psychology operates a statistics and several research laboratories, as well as a community clinic. The department's chapter of Psi Chi, the National Honors Society in Psychology, is advised by department faculty and actively supports the development and maintenance of a curriculum high in quality and educational effectiveness.

Departmental Honors

The psychology department faculty awards departmental honors at graduation to students who have produced outstanding work. Requirements for consideration are a high psychology coursework GPA; a grade of "A" in 6 credits of individual study (PSY 499), or in at least 3 credits of individual study (PSY 499) and at least 3 credits of fieldwork in psychology (PSY 492); and formal election by the faculty. Exceptional community service may also be considered in lieu of 3 credits of PSY 492.

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

The core foundation curriculum in psychology provides the student with the essentials of psychological science and thought. Culminating with the senior thesis, the core curriculum produces an integration of the student's goals and objectives with psychology's present and future. In addition to the core foundation curriculum, students pursue a curriculum of courses covering key psychological processes and applied areas of the field chosen in consultation with their psychology academic advisor. All courses in the major must be taken for a letter grade and passed with a "C" or higher.

core foundation in psychological science (19 credits)

(prerequisite to all other courses)

senior project (6 credits)

Psychology majors are required to choose and complete one of the following three options as a capstone project during their senior year.

option 1: directed independent research of project

A two semester individual research study designed for psychology majors who intend to pursue and complete an independent, innovative investigation in psychological science under faculty supervision. In each semester, 2 credits must be registered with the faculty member supervising the research and 1 credit must be registered with a senior project faculty member.

option 2: senior thesis

For psychology majors who are not enrolled in Senior Research (PSY 496) and possess the academic qualifications and intent to continue their education in an academic graduate program.

option 3: advanced literature search, analysis, and annotation

For psychology majors who intend to pursue non-academic employment or practice-oriented post degree studies and training.

psychological processes (15–16 credits)

one course from each of the following five groups

group 1

group 2

group 3

group 4

group 5

applied psychology (6 credits)

two of the following

optional internships and individual study

Minor in Psychology

There are two tracks for a psychology minor. The general track is designed to enhance knowledge of a psychological process and/or area within the discipline. The applied track is designed to provide exposure to the essential skills and procedures involved in using psychological processes and procedures. Students seeking a psychology minor should discuss the selection of track and courses with a psychology department advisor. A minimum of 9 credits must be upper-division.

general track (19 credits)

core foundation courses

applied track (18 credits)

core foundation course

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Chapman's department of psychology offers a master of arts degree in marriage and family therapy designed to provide the student with the academic and professional training necessary for a career in marriage and family therapy. This marriage and family therapy program may also serve as a foundation for further graduate study in psychology or one of the related disciplines. The program includes a substantial clinical training component in which students work under the supervision of department faculty and staff in a counseling setting, either in the clinic sponsored by the department or at some other approved site. Students in this program complete a minimum of 54 semester credits.

Course Descriptions – Psychology

PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology

PSY 101 is prerequisite to all other courses in psychology. Introduction to the theories, principles, processes, problems, methods, and applications of psychology. In addition to attendance at lectures, students are required to serve as participants in course-relevant research or to complete a project of similar length and content. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 199 Individual Study

(Offered as needed.) 1-6 credits.

PSY 201 Critical Thinking

Prerequisite, PSY 101. Students explore methods of empirical and theoretical evaluation of psychological facts, assertions, research studies, and theories. The course focuses on the development of a critical thinking paradigm, which will reduce the probability of common errors of thinking. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 202 History and Systems of Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. Discussion and evaluation of psychology's historical roots and the influences and people that have contributed to its present form. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 203 Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

Prerequisites, PSY 101, proficiency in pre-calculus mathematics as evidenced by the appropriate placement exam score available through the Department of Mathematics. The course covers descriptive and inferential statistics, the rationale of hypothesis testing, a survey of the common parametric and nonparametric statistical tests, and the calculation and interpretation of statistical indices and applications. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 204 Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 203, or equivalent, consent of instructor. An introduction to the principles and procedures involved in behavioral sciences research emphasizing the scientific method and its application to psychological inquiry. A student successfully completing this course will possess: (1) a broad understanding of the processes and outcomes of psychological science; (2) an appreciation of the strengths and limitations of psychological science; and (3) the ability to consume and communicate the processes and outcomes of psychological science using the publication format of the American Psychological Association (APA). (Offered every semester.) 4 credits.

PSY 290 Intern Program

(Offered as needed.) 1–6 credits.

PSY 299 Individual Study

Prerequisites, PSY 101, consent of instructor, academic advisor, chair, 3.000 or higher grade point average. Supervised individual study or research on a special problem or in a selected area of psychology. Open to lower-division students majoring in psychology. (Offered every semester.) 1–6 credits.

PSY 310 Psychology of Learning

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An examination of the theoretical and methodological foundations of human learning. Emphasis is placed on an evaluation of the major learning paradigms and on the application of learning principles. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 315 Sensation and Perception

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the sensory nervous system and the perceptual basis of human experience. General topics include psychophysics, and the physiology of the sensory systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interaction between the anatomy of the sensory system and the transduction of sensory stimuli into meaningful perceptional experiences. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 317 Cognitive Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. Examines the neural basis for cognition beginning with attention and spans the breadth of cognitive processes to include memory, learning, language, reasoning and problem solving. Students learn how our minds absorb, store, and manipulate information from the world to solve problems, make decisions, comprehend language, produce art and laugh at jokes. Students are encouraged to think critically and develop questions about their own cognitive processes. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 319 Motivation and Emotion

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the theoretical, physiological, and behavioral constructs underlying the processes of motivation and emotion. Emphasis is placed on methods for studying motivation and emotion and their role in human behavior. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 322 Theories of Personality

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An evaluative review of the major theories of personality emphasizing structural, dynamical, developmental, and pathological aspects. Specific personality theories to be covered include psychodynamic, biological, behavioral, cognitive, social learning, humanistic–existential, traits, and person–situation. Knowledge of these classic theories is balanced with current research applications. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 323 Child Development

Prerequisite, PSY 101. This course is for psychology majors and covers the physical, cognitive, social and emotional domains of development from conception through adolescence. The course consists of a lecture and a laboratory component. Lectures introduce major theories and research strategies in child development and integrates applied aspects such as parenting and teaching children. The laboratory includes professionally supervised fieldwork with children in an approved setting. (Offered fall semester.) 4 credits.

PSY 324 Psychology of Aging

Prerequisite, PSY 101. Using a life–span developmental framework this course will review and discuss the growth, decline and stability that occur in the domains of physical, social, psychological and cognitive functioning in aging. The course is designed to facilitate comprehension of major theoretical approaches, to foster critical evaluating of existing research and theories, and to identify and dispel myths about aging. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

PSY 326 Child Psychology and Development

Prerequisite, PSY 101. This course is for liberal studies students and other non–psychology majors and covers the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains of development from conception through adolescence. Lectures introduce major theories and research strategies in child development and integrate applied aspects such as parenting and teaching children. Classroom theories of child development and methods of interacting with children will be applied in context. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 327 Lifespan Development

Prerequisite, PSY 101. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major theories, concepts, and research methods in life–span developmental psychology. Students will learn to understand cognitive, emotional and social development and changes across the entire life span from infancy to late adulthood. This course examines the biological and environmental foundations of development including cross–cultural issues and highlights empirical research to integrate theoretical and applied perspectives. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 328 Abnormal Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An overview of the field of abnormal psychology, which is the application of methods, principles and findings from psychological research to understand, classify, and treat "abnormal" behavior and psychologically–based human suffering. Topics of lectures, discussions and video presentations provide an integrative overview of current approaches to classification, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders and mental illness. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 329 Experimental Course

(Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

PSY 330 Child Abnormal Psychology

Prerequisites, PSY 101, and either 323, 326, or 327, or concurrent enrollment. This course reviews the etiology, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological and development disorders in children and adolescents. This course is likely to benefit all students who are interested in interacting with children and adolescents, as well as students considering careers involving children and youth with emotional and behavioral problems. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 333 Physiological Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 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. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 336 Social Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the scientific study of how groups and individuals interact. Cognition, feelings, impressions, and attitudes influence and are influenced by the presence of others according to the precepts of Social Psychology. Topics include manipulation and influence tactics, persuasion, attraction, aggression, altruism, self–concept, stereotypes, and cognition and behavioral congruence. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 340 Human Sexuality

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the physiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors influencing healthy human sexual expression. Emphasis is placed on gender identity, sex roles, variations in sexual behavior, love and attraction, and basic treatments for sexual dysfunction. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 341 Cross–Cultural Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the major issues and terminology used in cross–cultural psychology, which uses models and research methods from psychology, anthropology, and sociology. The course emphasizes a comparative approach. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 344 Gay, Lesbian and Bi–Sexual Psychology

A systematic study of the psychological issues affecting lesbians, gay men and bisexual individuals in American society. The course integrates the most recent research-based information with life experiences of lesbian/gay/bisexual people in such areas as conceptualization and origin of sexual orientation, lifespan development, psychosocial identity, relationships, internalized homophobia, parenting and clinical services. Critical and controversial issues will be debated. The course emphasizes an affirmative approach and is appropriate for students of any sexual orientation. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

PSY 345 Sports Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An exploration of how psychological principles apply to the study and understanding of sports and related issues. Applicable for Psychology majors, Athletic Trainers majors, coaches, and anyone interested in analyzing sports topics from an advanced cognitive perspective. The course examines research from social, clinical, counseling, and experimental psychology as they relate to teamwork, cohesion, sports aggression, fan violence, motivation to achieve excellence, exercise adherence, and adult influences on child sports experiences. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 355 Diversity in Marital and Family Relationships

Prerequisite, PSY 101. This course will provide students with an overview of marriage and family relationships from a human diversity perspective. Basic theories and concepts in family life will be explored through a global lens, including the history of the family, marriage, infertility, assisted reproductive treatment, adoption, parenting practices, divorce, and the impact of gender on family relations. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 360 Human Psychology: The Totalitarian Experience

This course addresses human responses to totalitarianism and focuses on political, sociological and psychological perspective. Students explore a variety of psychological issues and questions associated with Germany and Europe an Nazi/fascist and communist legacies. Taught in Berlin at Chapman University's Berlin European Studies Program. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 395 Topic Courses in Psychological Process

Prerequisites, PSY 101, consent of advisor. An examination of selected topics in the area of psychological processes and the foundations of psychological understandings of human behavior. Course may be repeated for credit with consent of instructor. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

PSY 399 Individual Study

(Offered as needed.) 1–6 credits.

PSY 428 Introduction to Clinical Psychology

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 328. Overview of the profession and practice of clinical psychology. The course surveys 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. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 432 Introduction to Psychological Assessment

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 203, or equivalent, concurrent enrollment, or consent of instructor. An introduction to test uses, benefits, and cautions associated with testing from a psychological perspective. Topics include test construction, validity, reliability, intelligence, learning disabilities, test anxiety, and the interpretation and use of personality measures. Multiple psychological tests will be provided to students for interpretation and analysis. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

PSY 433 Psychopharmacology

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 328, 333, or equivalent, consent of instructor. 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 psychophysiological and psychopathological dysfunction. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 436 Health Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. A study of illness behavior and theories and applications of health psychology and behavioral medicine. The course explores models of wellness and illness, the mind-body relation, coping with acute and chronic stress, health–related anxiety, smoking cessation, weight control and dieting behavior, and psychosocial interventions for chronic diseases, as well as alternative medicine and managed health care provision models. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 437 Health and Well-Being

Prerequisite, PSY 101. A scientific and practical exploration of human strengths by examining the contributions of the science of psychology to physical health and well-being. The course examines the psychological and physical aspects that contribute to self-efficacy, resilience, personal achievement, mindfulness, and spirituality. By drawing on scientific studies and concepts and techniques of Western and Eastern medicine and psychology, the course explores behaviors that enhance both physical and mental health. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

PSY 446 Children and Trauma

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 323, or 326, or equivalent, consent of instructor. This course reviews the etiology, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological trauma in children and adolescents. This course explores the influence of multiple factors of trauma that may lead to the emergence of childhood psychiatric disorders. This course provides a critical foundation for future training and education of students considering careers involving children with emotional and behavioral problems. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

PSY 461 Psychology of Music

Prerequisites, PSY 101, MUS 101, or 102, or consent of instructor. This interdisciplinary course explores the human perception and cognitive organization of music. Topics covered will include the neurobiology of music, psychoacoustic/music perception, music cognition, music and emotion, the cognitive development of music in children, the neuropsychology of music and music learning and behavior. (Offered in fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 481 Organizational Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An introduction to the scientific study of how psychological principles, concepts, and research apply to our understanding of work and work behavior. The course incorporates information from business, sociology, psychology, and economics. Topics include psychological testing, personnel selection, work violence, advertising, conflict resolution, hiring, interviewing, team building and leadership. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding one's strengths and weaknesses as they apply to different components of work. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

PSY 482 Forensic Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An examination of the interaction of the legal field and psychology, with emphasis on criminality, profiling, juries, prisons, sentencing, and police officer selection and training. Current research in Forensic Psychology will also be addressed. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

PSY 490 Independent Internship

Prerequisites, PSY 101, consent of faculty internship advisor, site internship advisor. Supervised independent experience in an approved setting where psychological services are provided and research is conducted. (Offered every semester.) 1–3 credits.

PSY 492 Fieldwork in Psychology

Prerequisites, PSY 101, consent of academic advisor, internship supervisor, chair. 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. (Offered every semester.) 1–3 credits.

PSY 495 Topics in Applied Psychology

Prerequisite, PSY 101. An examination of selected topics of areas of application of psychological principles and processes. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

PSY 496 Senior Project: Individual Research

Prerequisites, senior class standing, PSY 101, 203, 204, MATH 403, or equivalents with approval of faculty member supervising student's research and approval of a department-designated senior project faculty member who will evaluate the project. Approval of project the by the Chapman University Institutional Review Board or by the supervising faculty instructor and department-designated senior project instructor. Satisfaction of the major's senior project requirement through the development and completion of an independent, innovative investigation in psychological science. Under the supervision of a faculty member and in consultation with a senior project faculty member, the students will design, conduct, analyze, and formally report their study. (Offered every semester.) 1-2 credits.

PSY 497 Senior Project: Thesis I

Prerequisites, PSY 101, 203, 204, or equivalents, consent of instructor; senior standing in the psychology major or consent of instructor. In depth, exploration of a topic in Psychology by locating, analyzing, and interpreting current literature. Students will learn literature search strategies, including the evaluation of literature source quality; the weighting of literature relative to the selected topics; the analysis of data presented in the literature; and the construction of annotated summaries of the literature. Students will also learn to use the SPSS statistical software to analyze data presented in the psychological literature. In addition to completing directed assignments, students will provide a professional-level presentation of their topic literature search and a comprehensive written annotated summary of the most important literature relative to their topics. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 498 Senior Project: Thesis II

Prerequisites, PSY 497, senior standing, psychology major. The course objectives of Senior Project I are 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 writing and oral presentation of a seminal product. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

PSY 499 Individual Research

Prerequisites, PSY 101, consent of instructor, academic advisor, chair; junior, or senior standing, psychology major with 3.000 or higher overall GPA. Supervised individual study or research on a special problem or in a selected area of psychology. (Offered every semester.) 1–3 credits.