"The purpose of Psychology is to give us a completely different idea of the things we know best." Paul Valery, Tel Quel, 1943

Overview: This course focuses on the causes, effects, and consequences of human behavior. Specific attention is paid to the historical and modern theories of famous psychologists concerning human behavior. In addition students are introduced to various factors in the development of individual personality, such as heredity, emotions, motivation, intelligence, learning, and interpersonal relationships. Mental disorders and their treatments are also studied. In addition, the course introduces students to current issues such as death and dying, adoption, family counseling, teen suicide, and peer pressure.


Evaluation: Students will be evaluated in a number of ways. Five unit exams will be given. Numerous smaller homework lessons of various types will be assigned in each unit. Typically in each unit there will be at least one small group project. Several internet assignments will also be given thoughout the semester There will also be a research component of the semester grade in Psychology. The details of research will be spelled out in a separate document, but all students will have choices of research methods and topics.