Social Psychology 367

Return

COURSE INFORMATION FOR SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 367 -- DR. TERRY F. PETTIJOHN

OVERVIEW. Social psychology attempts to understand how the thoughts, feelings and behavior of an individual are influenced by others. This course views the human being as a social animal (information -- arousal -- reinforcement). It explores research, the social motive, attraction, group influences and attitudes, and then applies the knowledge gained to social perception, aggression, altruism, and environment. The course is useful, relevant, and fun. Tests will cover basic principles and applications. Social Psychology 367 will help students acquire knowledge of scientific theory and research in the major topic areas of social psychology.

WRITING STATUS. Social Psychology 367 is a "second level writing course". As such, it requires "substantial written work". The written assignments, in the form of 4 short papers (500 words), are intended both to develop writing skills and to solidify your understanding of the lecture and text materials of the course. You will develop an idea, obtain a social psych journal reference, write an outline and rough draft, and then revise your paper in final form. The written work emphasis also extends to the tests, which are essay, but include take home and multiple choice questions. The writing should help you understand concepts.

TENTATIVE GRADING AND ASSIGNMENTS. Your grade will be based on your performance on 5 tests (each worth 100 points) and 4 short 500-word papers (each worth 25 points, 5 for the draft and 20 for the final). The grading scale is on the reverse side of the syllabus. Tests will cover the important concepts presented in the course, and will require you to apply what you have learned. They will be largely essay tests, with some objective. The papers will allow you to explore topics in more depth. The specific assignments will be announced in class. They will include essays on concepts, small experimental write-ups, reviews of psychology journal articles, and small projects. They will be fun and educational. Please take tests and papers on time. I expect to see improvement in each paper. There will be writing and discussion assignments in class that you must complete. You may give me postcard/stamped envelope for final grade to be mailed.

EXPECTATIONS. I expect everyone in Psychology 367 to work at understanding the course material. Come to class prepared by reading the assignment. I expect respect of others throughout the quarter. This includes listening when someone is talking. I expect improvement in writing assignments. I do not expect you to be social psychologists. We will work together to explore the fascinating field of social psychology. Complete assignments on time. And have fun. You will be able to apply what you learn to your everyday life situation!

Return

Behavioral Neuroscience 313

Return

OVERVIEW. Psychobiology covers "the neuronal and behavioral foundations of psychobiology." It includes correlates of psychological phenomena, the properties of integrated organ systems, with emphasis upon the characteristics of their elements, and consideration of psychosomatic abnormalities. It will help the student understand the nervous system and how it interacts with the body to produce behavior. Practical applications will be stressed in the course (but be aware that certain basic concepts must be covered). Topics include the neuron and the nervous system, drugs and hormones, perception, arousal and sleep, emotion and stress, sexual behavior, eating, learning and memory, and abnormal behavior. In each case, we will explore the biological influences on behavior. Much of the course will focus on human behavior, but relevant animal literature will also be covered. You are responsible for textbook and lecture material. Class time will include lectures, discussions, and videos. Make sure you get notes if absent.

EXPECTATIONS. Students are responsible to obtain information and learn concepts. Outside reading and Internet assignments may be required. I realize that most students will not major in physiological psychology. I know that many of you are majoring in other areas, and are interested in how biology influences behavior so you will be able to apply it to your own field. Therefore, we will concentrate on applications which will be most relevant to all majors. There are certain facts and informational theories which must be covered, however, and I expect you to work on learning the information. The physiological course counts as experimental requirement for the psychology major or minor. You should enjoy the course and get a better understanding of the biological influences on your behavior and the behavior of those around you. Although this area is sometimes difficult to thoroughly understand, it is extremely important, and with a little effort you will be able to learn the general principles. We may alter some of the order of topics. Don't hesitate to ask questions. Please see me during office hours. Have fun. Good luck in learning about biology and behavior.

Return