XI. Course Descriptions

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Psychology

PSYC*1130 Developmental Psychology W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will provide an introduction to the major theories of developmental psychology. Emphasis will be placed on the processes of development including physical growth, perception, cognition, personality and interactions with the social environment. The application of developmental psychology to educational and social issues will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110
Co-requisite(s): AHSS*1120
PSYC*2030 Research Methods in Psychology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is a general introduction to contemporary research methods in Psychology. The relationship between theory and research will be explored. Qualitative and quantitative approaches to research in the behavioural sciences will be discussed and introductory terminology and concepts defined. Current models of data collection, experimental design and analysis will be examined. Issues related to research including literature review, research ethics, and report writing will be contextualized within the field of Psychology.
Prerequisite(s): 3.00 credits
Equate(s): SCMA*2040
PSYC*2120 Quantification in Psychology I F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an introduction to statistical methods and research.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*2130 Social Psychology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an introduction to the content and methodology of social psychology. Content includes social perception, attraction, conflict, conformity, aggression, group dynamics, and attitude change. Methods include examples of important social psychological experiments and both surveys and correlation analysis which are the most common methods of investigation.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*2150 Personality W (3-0) [0.50]
This course reviews the major personality theories, their development and research findings and comparisons and criticism of each. Details of the theories lives and impact will be briefly reviewed. The status and future of personality research methodology will also be examined.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*2160 Neuroscience W (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an introduction to the anatomical, physiological and neurochemical structure and function of the nervous system. The course emphasizes the link between brain mechanisms and behaviour. Of particular interest will be the acquisition of environmental signals, the control of movement, the regulation of food and water, sleep, sex and the psycho-physiological aspects of stress and emotion.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*2180 Psychology of Exercise F,W (3-0) [0.50]
This course investigates the psychosocial influences and consequences of exercise. Students will examine exercise behaviour, explore intervention approaches aimed at modifying exercise behaviour, and study the impact of exercise on various mental health states such as stress, anxiety, depression, emotional well-being, self-concept/self-esteem, and health-related quality of life.
PSYC*2190 Adult Development & Aging F (3-0) [0.50]
This course examines theories and research relating to the psychology of adult development and aging. Major topics include biological and psychological theories of aging; age changes in cognition, personality and social relations; cultural factors; and end-of-life issues.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*1130
PSYC*2200 Cognitive Psychology W (3-0) [0.50]
This course is designed to be an introduction to the fundamental phenomena and theories of cognition, including: information processing, perception, attention, memory, language, and problem solving.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*2210 Psychology of Learning F (3-0) [0.50]
This course provides an introduction to the basic principles and concepts of learning. Theories of classical and operant conditioning will be explored, in addition to selected theories of motivation and memory. Basic neurobiological mechanisms underlying various learning and memory processes will also be introduced.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*3120 Quantification in Psychology II F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is a continuation of Quantification in Psychology. The course is an advanced introduction to statistical methods and research.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120, PSYC*2120
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*3130 Psychological Measurement F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an introduction to psychological measurement and the measurement procedures presently used in psychology. Coverage will include such topics as reliability, validity, test construction, and the measurement of ability, personality, attitudes, interest and achievement.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2120, (SCMA*2040 or PSYC*2030)
PSYC*3140 Abnormal Psychology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course examines current theory and research in the field of abnormal psychology in terms of various models (biological, behavioural, social and psychodynamic). Selected topics may include: stress and anxiety, affective disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders and mental health.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2150
PSYC*3150 Drugs and Behaviour W (3-0) [0.50]
This course develops a critical understanding of contemporary psychological approaches to addiction. Students are introduced to psychological theories of addiction from the fields of biological, behavioural, social and cognitive psychology, and the research and clinical evidence that support them. Students consider the relative contribution of each approach to the understanding, treatment and prevention of both drug-related addictions and selected addictive behaviours, such as gambling and eating.
Prerequisite(s): 10.00 credits, AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120
PSYC*3160 Learning Difficulties and Disabilities W (3-0) [0.50]
The course covers applied and theoretical aspects of learning disabilities and other disabilities that interfere with learning and lays a foundation for work in the area of education and intervention with children and adolescents who have exceptional learning needs.
Prerequisite(s): 10.00 credits, AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120, PSYC*1130
PSYC*3170 Persuasion and Facilitation W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will expose students to persuasion, and facilitation, which has been of interest to human beings through the ages. From the ancient Greeks to the executives on Madison Avenue, persuading and influencing others has been a primary concern. This course is designed to expose students to the theories, principles, and strategies relevant to persuasion and will help students become familiar with empirical investigations on persuasion and compliance-gaining. The course also focuses on how empirical findings and theory may be applied to our daily interactions.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2130 and 10.00 credits
PSYC*3180 Applied Study in Psychology: Community Mental Health F,W (1-6) [0.50]
In this course, students combine academic study with 100 hours of workplace experience in a community-based setting. Students will be required to complete a paper that integrates relevant psychological theories and research with their workplace experiences. Workplace positions can be voluntary or paid placements that begin no later than week two of the semester and end no earlier than week twelve. Students are responsible for securing a workplace position in consultation with the appropriate University of Guelph-Humber Field Placement Officer prior to the start of classes.
Prerequisite(s): 10.00 credits, including AHSS*1110 and AHSS*1120
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program. Program Head consent required.
PSYC*3190 Case Studies and Qualitative Methods W (3-0) [0.50]
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the foundations and philosophies of qualitative methodologies in psychology and their place in psychological research. The different paradigms of qualitative methodology and the ways in which qualitative and quantitative methods are similar, different, and complementary are examined. Practical experience in carrying out qualitative research is achieved as students undertake a range of in class qualitative methods exercises.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2120, (PSYC*2030 or SCMA*2040)
PSYC*3200 Psychology of Group Dynamics W (3-0) [0.50]
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the fundamental aspects of human behaviour in groups of various sizes (from dyads to entire cultures). The investigation of human behaviour in group situations will be investigated from theoretical, empirical, and applied perspectives. The topics that will be explored include issues of group development, performance, and leadership. The course is designed to engage students with the material experientially through the integration of small group activities with lectures and audiovisual presentations.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120, PSYC*2130
PSYC*3230 Research Communication and Proposal Writing W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will guide students through the successful preparation and submission of proposals for the purposes of: research grant funding, funding of services and interventions, publication, and psychology conference submission. Academic writing skills and APA style will be emphasized throughout including how to present ideas and plans clearly, concisely and persuasively. Students will work collaboratively to critique and improve each other’s work and to develop presentation and proposal writing skills.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120, PSYC*2120, (PSYC*2030 or SCMA*2040)
PSYC*3530 Health Psychology W (3-0) [0.50]
This course covers research in health psychology. Possible topics include the interplay of psychosocial factors, behaviour, and physical health; pediatric health psychology; health interventions at the individual, family, group or community levels.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2130
PSYC*3540 Ethics in Psychology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course examines the ethical responsibilities of and issues confronted by psychologists in clinical and academic settings, as well as psychology researchers practising in a variety of professional contexts. Some issues include: professional and personal boundaries, dual relationships, confidentiality and privacy issues, conflicts of interest, psychometry and the reporting of test results, forensic assessments, trust and deception in the context of research, and scientific integrity.
Prerequisite(s): 5.00 credits
Restriction(s): AHSS*2200
PSYC*3580 Forensic Psychology S,F,W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will examine a number of issues related to the interaction between psychology and law. The methods, theories, and findings of social psychology, cognitive psychology, and developmental psychology as applied to legal processes will be emphasized. Included among the issues to be examined are: theories of criminal behaviour; aggression and violence; the psychological foundations of police investigations; the psychology of eyewitness testimony; the psychological impact of victimization; legal issues related to mental health; and the role of psychological factors in the trial process.
Prerequisite(s): 5.00 credits including AHSS*1110
PSYC*3600 Field Study S (3-0) [1.00]
This field study option is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue an applied course of study while engaging with an organization or local community. The topic selected will be determined in agreement between the student and the faculty member with expertise in the area. The projects will involve students, under the supervision of a faculty advisor, working with a community or industry partner. The course format and description of projects will depend on the type of organization and selected topic.
Prerequisite(s): 12.00 credits and 75% cumulative average
Restriction(s): This is a Priority Access Course. Enrolment may be restricted to particular programs or specializations or semester levels during certain periods. Please see the Psychology website for more information. Instructor consent required.
PSYC*3610 Organizational Psychology U (3-0) [0.50]
This course examines current theories and practices in organizational psychology. Selected topics may include motivation, turnover, absenteeism, leadership, job design, work attitudes, organizational justice, organizational development, and change.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*2130
PSYC*3620 The Psychology of Sport U (3-0) [0.50]
This course examines individual and group behaviour in physical activities and sports. Emphasis will be placed on understanding psychological concepts which are pertinent to sports, e.g., motivation, social and personality development, cognition, leadership and group dynamics.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110
PSYC*3630 Psychology and Education U (2-1) [0.50]
This course examines the theoretical and empirical bases for learning and teaching and their application to an array of contexts, particularly the fields of education and parenting. The content addressed includes various theories of teaching and learning, cognitive and moral development, and motivation, as well as instructional planning, classroom management, and assessment of student learning. The course focuses on the current, and sometimes controversial, issues which are at the forefront of research on the relationship between principles and educational practice.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1170 or PSYC*1130
PSYC*3640 The Psychology of Death and Dying U (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an examination of the theory, issues and research in the psychology of death and dying. Emphasis upon the cognitive operations used to process about death and the influence of death constructs in daily life. Topics include the development of death constructs throughout the life-span, death anxiety in society, the needs of a dying person, the psychology of grieving, and unexpected losses, such as death by suicide or miscarriage.
Prerequisite(s): 1 of : AHSS*1110, PSYC*1130, PSYC*2130, PSYC*2150
PSYC*4110 History of Psychology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is a survey of the personalities and issues involved in the shaping of modern psychology. The course provides a background, context and vocabulary for the research and practices of psychology today. The historical antecedents, major theoretical systems, successes and failures leading to the modern era of Psychology will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): 14.00 credits
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4120 Culture and Diversity F (3-0) [0.50]
This course evaluates theories of how people are influenced by their social environment and culture. It offers students the opportunity to develop the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for effective applications of psychological science a multi-cultural, multi-racial society.
Prerequisite(s): 10.00 credits including PSYC*2130
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4130 Applications of Psychology F (2-1) [0.50]
This course will acquaint students with the ways in which psychological research and techniques can be applied to areas such as law, business, education, and the health sciences. This senior seminar course will offer students an opportunity to gain in-depth familiarity with research applications in their field of interest.
Prerequisite(s): 10.00 credits
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4160 Mediation and Conflict Resolution W (3-0) [0.50]
This course focuses on the research and theories underlying the skills and techniques used to reach resolution in a variety of conflict situations. Through lectures, group work and role-playing, students study the fundamental principles of negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution. Students have the opportunity to reflect on their own style of conflict resolution and the relevance of course material to their own lives.
Prerequisite(s): 15.00 credits
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4170 Theories of Psychotherapy I F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is the first of two courses designed to examine the philosophy and theory of providing psychotherapy services to clients. Focusing on theory, students learn a number of therapeutic frameworks and their application in the field. A critical examination of their key concepts, assumptions, therapeutic goals, and techniques is included as are factors common to all.
Prerequisite(s): 14.00 credits
Restriction(s): FCSS*2000, FCSS*4000, Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4180 Theories of Psychotherapy II W (2-1) [0.50]
This course will build on the theoretical knowledge attained in Theories of Psychotherapy I through lectures, and interactive discussion. Students will participate in active listening exercises and personal reflection exercises. Ethical and cross-cultural issues will also be explored.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC*4170
Restriction(s): FCSS*2000, FCSS*4000, Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4200 Honours Seminar in Psychology W (3-0) [1.00]
This seminar course will provide senior psychology students with an opportunity to engage in discussion addressing the theoretical and applied aspects of the discipline of psychology. The seminar will allow students to synthesise prior learning in psychology with current issues as presented by the instructor.
Prerequisite(s): 15.00 credits
Restriction(s): Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program.
PSYC*4210 Thesis I F (3-0) [0.50]
This course is an opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience in carrying out a piece of psychological research. In this first of these two thesis courses, the focus will be on defining a research question, conducting a comprehensive review of the relevant literature and designing a research study in Psychology. Under the supervision of a faculty member, the student will develop a research proposal and make a formal PowerPoint presentation describing their proposal to the class.
Prerequisite(s): AHSS*1110, AHSS*1120, PSYC*3130
Restriction(s): Minimum grade point average of 75% in all Psychology course attempts. Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program. Program Head consent required.
PSYC*4220 Thesis II W (3-10) [1.00]
This course focuses on implementing the research proposed in Thesis I. Under the supervision of a faculty member, individual students conduct an approved study in the proposed setting, analyze the data collected, report on the research in a formal presentation and write a thesis paper.
Restriction(s): Minimum grade point average of 75% in all Psychology course attempts. Restricted to the B.A.Sc.(PSYC) program. Program Head consent required.
PSYC*4230 Independent Study in Psychology S,F,W (3-0) [0.50]
The independent study option is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue library or field research under faculty supervision and to prepare an integrated paper or literature review. Formal agreement between the student and the faculty supervisor is required, as is approval of the program head.
Prerequisite(s): 15.00 Credits and 75% grade point average
Restriction(s): Instructor consent required. Program Head consent required.
University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East
Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
Canada
519-824-4120