Psychology 488 - Senior Seminar

Institution:

Macalester College

Subject:

Description:

Senior seminars examine a variety of topics. Open to senior majors and minors only. Pain and Suffering This seminar will examine both basic research and clinical aspects of pain. Following introductory lectures on pain and pain relief, a series of topics will be explored, including, but not limited to: pain measurement in humans and animals; the ethics and use of experimental models in pain research; chronic pain; pain relief produced by drugs, acupuncture, hypnosis, and placebos; and learning processes that influence pain sensitivity. Prerequisite: Senior major or minor. Fall semester. (4 credits) African American Psychology This seminar introduces the social, cultural, and psychological diversity existing in the African American community within the United States. Topics include, but are not limited to, the many roles of culture, conceptualization and expression of identity, interrelationships between self and community, and prominent psychological principles associated with African American experiences. Culture and Context course. Prerequisite: Senior major or minor. Spring semester. (4 credits) Mood and Anxiety This seminar will focus on the etiology, maintenance, and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. We will explore both theoretical models for understanding the experience of individuals with these disorders, as well as available pharmacological and psychosocial treatment approaches. Topics will include the challenges of diagnostic definitions, comorbidity, historical perspectives, and contemporary controversies. Prerequisite: Senior major or minor. Spring semester. (4 credits) Lives in Context: Psychology and Social Structure ( Same as Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies 405) This seminar will explore the relationship between individual lives and broad social systems. We will read theory, research, and autobiographical work about the implications of gender, social class, race, physical ability, historical context, etc., on psychological experiences and will explore a variety of methodological strategies for doing research in these areas. Culture and Context course. Prerequisite: Senior major or minor. Next offered in 2009-2010. (4 credits) Cultural Psychology This seminar will examine the interplay of culture and the mind. How does culture shape our self-concepts, motivations, emotions, thoughts and social interactions How does culture change as a result of intercultural contacts, globalization, and multiculturalism In exploring these questions we will review research conducted across the globe on culture, ethnicity, and race, and to a lesser extent, gender, religion, and socioeconomic status. We will also examine theoretical developments and methodological limitations in cultural psychology and how findings may be applied to increasing our own cultural competencies as we navigate an increasingly complex and heterogeneous cultural terrain. Prerequisite: Senior major or minor. Fall semester. (4 credits) Special Courses The following course listings provide opportunities for the design of special individual educational activities. Prior consultation with a member of the department is a necessary prerequisite for registration in courses at this level.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.macalester.edu

Phone Number:

(651) 696-6000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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