Undergraduate Catalog 2008-2010 - Immaculata University

PSY 307 Social Psychology (3)
Examines the scientific study of social behavior. Students will
be challenged to investigate and critically think of such interesting
human topics as: the intrigue of personal attraction; the accuracy of
impressions, the emotional sources of persuasion, conformity,
prejudice, and altruism; and finally the influence of personal
attitudes and beliefs on social behavior.
PSY 308 HON: Children and Societies Worldwide (3)
This course will explore the effects of societal institutions on
child development around the globe, with special emphasis on non-
Western societies. Students will examine political, social, and
economic forces that affect children’s psychological, physical and
cognitive growth and development. (Meets cross-cultural course
requirement.)
PSY 311 Physiological Psychology (3)
Examines our current understanding of the physiological processes
underlying hunger, thirst, sexual behavior, learning, reward, pain,
attention, arousal, sleep, and psychological disorders. Emphasis is
on brain function and neural transmission.
PSY 312 Theories of Personality (3)
Study of diverse theoretical approaches to understanding
personality; review of current assessment and research methods
employed in the study of the person.
PSY 313 Experimental Psychology I (3)
Introduction to and experience in various methods of
psychological research. Students conduct experiments, gather and
analyze data, write research reports, and develop skills in the critical
analysis of research design. (Prerequisites: PSY 101 and 208)
PSY 314 Experimental Psychology II (3)
Various aspects of human and animal learning are covered
including: the acquisition and extinction of classically and
instrumentally conditioned responses, generalization,
discrimination, schedules of reinforcement, aversive conditioning,
biological constraints, and areas of application. Laboratory
exercises involve human and animal learning and the writing of
reports. Each student develops an original research proposal on a
topic in learning. (Prerequisite: PSY 313)
PSY 316 Preprofessional Internship (3)
This course combines internship with independent study.
Placements are available in clinical, educational, and
industrial/business settings. A weekly seminar helps students
process their experiences and presents information on a range of
professional issues. Students must obtain permission of instructor
before registering for internship.
PSY 317 Preprofessional Internship (3)
This course combines internship with independent study.
Placements are available in clinical, educational, and
industrial/business settings. A weekly seminar helps students
process their experiences and presents information on a range of
professional issues. Students must obtain permission of instructor
before registering for internship.
PSY 320 Abnormal Psychology (3)
Modern concepts of diagnosis, classification, treatment, and
prevention of psychological disorders. Emphasis is on the necessity
for developing an understanding of the diversity of approaches to
psychopathology including: behavioral, biomedical, cognitive,
interpersonal, psychoanalytic, and humanistic.
PSY 321 Self-Awareness through Groups (3)
Opportunities through group dynamics for students to expand
their awareness of self and others, try out new patterns of behavior,
and develop effective communication techniques. Students will
learn behavioral skills that enhance interpersonal interactions.
PSY 324 Lifespan Development (3)
Explores the entire range of human life from the moment of
conception through death. The content is designed to encourage
respect for theory and research and at the same time provide
information that can be applied in a meaningful, practical sense. In
essence, the course tells the story of human beings and how they get
to be the way they are.
PSY 338 Psychology of Literature and Film (3)
An interdisciplinary approach to the study of psychology
through literature and film. (See COM 258)
PSY 343 Human Sexuality (3)
Examines in depth the phenomenon of human sexuality. Topics
include sexual myths and fallacies, the female sexual system, the
male sexual system, sexual attitudes and behavior in today’s society,
sexual dysfunctions and treatment. Special emphasis placed on the
development of the physical and psychological aspects of a
committed, intimate sexual relationship.
PSY 345 Organizational Behavior (3)
This course examines the psychology of human performance on
organizational effectiveness. Emphasis is placed on individual and
group performance in such crucial areas as leadership,
communications, conflict resolution, decision making,
organizational systems and dynamics. Students study and develop
psychological strategies for optimal organizational effectiveness.
(Prerequisite: PSY 101)
PSY 350 Introduction to Counseling (3)
An introduction to the basic dimensions and skills of the
counseling process; an examination of the essential characteristics of
an effective counselor; a review of the major theories of counseling
and psychotherapy; and some experience in applying these
components to a counseling situation. (Prerequisite: PSY 101)
PSY 356 Selected Topics in Psychology (3)
An in-depth examination of a single contemporary psychological
issue such as: wellness, substance abuse, eating disorders, mother and
daughter relationships, spirituality, or a critical examination of specific
therapeutic approaches. Topics will rotate based on current research
trends and student interest. See course schedule for current topic.
PSY 357 Sport Psychology (3)
This course explores a wide variety of subject matter that
focuses on enhancing athletic and training accomplishments.
Emphasis is on the description of relevant psychological techniques
that have proven to augment readiness and improve performance in
exercise and sport settings.
PSY 401 Independent Study and Research (1-6)
An opportunity to engage in independent study, research, or
agency experience in a specific phase of the major field.
(Prerequisite: Honors standing)
PSY 402 Independent Study and Research (1-6)
An opportunity to engage in independent study, research, or
agency experience in a specific phase of the major field.
(Prerequisite: Honors standing)
102