The focus of this course is on the societal definitions and impact of abnormal and deviant behavior, and what is considered psychopathology. It examines both how mental illness is recognized and regarded, and how its treatment may vary, in different societies and cultures. It deals with major disorders and personality syndromes considered to be abnormal or deviant and examines the various etiologic factors known or believed to play a role in each of the disorders, considering them from varying perspectives, such as psychoanalytic, cognitive behavioral, biological, and humanistic.

This course introduces some of the major topics related to human cognition, including perception, attention, memory, knowledge acquisition, language, problem solving, reasoning, and decision making. Students will explore the historical context, current theories, neurobiological underpinnings, research methods, and empirical research relevant to the field of cognitive psychology. Comprehension will be enhanced through the application of cognitive principles to understand everyday behavior and solve practical problems.

This capstone course is a field-based internship designed to develop and hone the practical application skills of an Applied Psychology major. The course requires students to integrate the knowledge and skills gained from other courses in the program and to demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge to new subject matter and practical situations. Students apply for an internship at a self-selected site and negotiate the terms of the internship experience with a site supervisor under the auspices of their faculty mentor. The internship requires documented evidence of eighty hours of supervised experience and practice in a field setting where psychology-related knowledge and skills are applied. NOTE: Registration for this course, an internship, is by permission of Academic Affairs. Early registration deadlines may apply. Prior to capstone enrollment, students are expected to complete the majority of their required major courses. Students should consult with their advisor regarding specific major courses that may be completed with their capstone. NOTE: Students who were admitted to the college before Fall 2019 and have remained active in their original catalog year are not required to take IDIS 601.

Psychology as a behavioral science; its theoretical and applied aspects. Includes research methods, behavioral neuroscience, sensation and perception, cognition, learning, development, personality, psychopathology, and social psychology. To experience actively the nature of psychological research students have an opportunity to participate in a variety of studies as part of a laboratory experience.