Course Description
& Units of Study
Course Description: General Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the behavioral and mental processes of human beings. If you are a human would like to learn more about yourself and others, this fascinating class will give you the opportunity to understand why humans think, feel, and behave as we do. General Psychology is a one-semester course. Successful completion of Psychology can fulfill a 0.5 credit Social Studies elective or general elective requirement for graduation.
In General Psychology You Will:
Study the major core concepts and theories of psychology.
Learn the definitions of key terms related to psychology and use them in your everyday vocabulary.
Learn the basic skills of psychological research and be able to apply psychological concepts to your own life.
Understand how biological, cognitive, and social factors influence our thoughts and behaviors.
Gain insights that can help you improve your life and enhance your relationships with others.
Please note that in the course of studying Psychology, we will examine case studies that deal with mature content and sensitive topics such as abuse, neglect, trauma, depression, suicide, etc. Should students or their parents be uncomfortable with such material, they have the choice of dropping the course during the first 10 days of the semester.
Units of Study: General Psychology
Unit 1 - What is Psychology?
Main Topics: Psychology is a Science / Psychological Research Methods / Careers in Psychology
Unit 2 - Biological Influences on Thinking & Behavior
Main Topics: The Brain / Sensation and Perception / Consciousness / Sleep & Dreaming
Unit 3 - Cognitive Influences on Thinking & Behavior
Main Topics: Cognition / Intelligence & Creativity / Memory & Forgetting / Motivation & Emotion
Unit 4 - Social Influences on Thinking & Behavior
Main Topics: Attitudes and Attribution / Conformity and Obedience / Social Relationships: Friendship, Love, and Attraction / Group Conflict and Group Interactions
Unit 5 - Stress, Health, and Positive Psychology
Main Topics: Stress & Its Impact on Health / What is Positive Psychology? How Can it be Used to Reduce Stress and Improve Wellbeing?
Unit 6 - Psychological Disorders and Treatment
Main Topics: What Are Psychological Disorders? / Anxiety and Mood Disorders / Dissociative Disorders / Schizophrenia / Treatment of Psychological Disorders / Positive Psychology and Happiness
