• PSYC 100: Gazing into the Black Mirror

    The Netflix series Black Mirror explores in captivating and often chilling fashion how human psychology and behavior can be (and have been) shaped by new technologies. Each episode raises psychological, ethical, and existential questions about the nature and limitations of humanity and our relationship with technology. In this course, we’ll take a journey through the black mirror and seek to answer many of these questions, pairing selected episodes of the series with readings that explore the issues in them. The course will include discussions of social psychology, cognition, transhumanism, social media, and human nature. Students will leave the course with a more nuanced understanding of human psychology and our relationship with technology. Note: The series covers some challenging topics, including psychological abuse, physical abuse, sexual harassment, violence, etc.

     Prerequisites:

    Student is a member of the First Year First Term class level cohort. Students are only allowed to register for one A&I course at a time. If a student wishes to change the A&I course they are enrolled in they must DROP the enrolled course and then ADD the new course. Please see our Workday guides Drop or 'Late' Drop a Course and Register or Waitlist for a Course Directly from the Course Listing for more information.

     6 credits; AI/WR1, Argument & Inquiry/WR1; offered Fall 2024 · Mitchell Campbell

  • PSYC 110: Principles of Psychology

    This course surveys major topics in psychology. We consider the approaches different psychologists take to describe and explain behavior. We will consider a broad range of topics, including how animals learn and remember contexts and behaviors, how personality develops and influences functioning, how the nervous system is structured and how it supports mental events, how knowledge of the nervous system may inform an understanding of conditions such as schizophrenia, how people acquire, remember and process information, how psychopathology is diagnosed, explained, and treated, how infants and children develop, and how people behave in groups and think about their social environment. 6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Fall 2024, Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Violet Brown, Emma McGorray, Julia Strand, Sarah Meerts, Sharon Akimoto, Julie Neiworth, Gisel Flores-Montoya, Neil Lutsky

  • PSYC 200: Measurement and Data Analysis in Psychology

    The course considers the role of measurement and data analysis focused on behavioral sciences. Various forms of measurement and standards for the evaluation of measures are explored. Students learn how to summarize, organize, and evaluate data using a variety of techniques that are applicable to research in psychology and other disciplines. Among the analyses discussed and applied are tests of means, various forms of analysis of variance, correlation and regression, planned and post-hoc comparisons, as well as various non-parametric tests. Research design is also explored. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- OR CGSC/PSYC 232 – Cognitive Processes and CGSC/PSYC 233 – Laboratory Cognitive Processes with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; FSR, Formal or Statistical Reasoning, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Violet Brown, Mitchell Campbell

  • PSYC 201: Measurement and Data Analysis Lab

    This lab course accompanies the lecture course, Psychology 200, and must be taken during the same term. The lab will provide an opportunity to explore lecture topics more deeply, and in particular emphasize data collection and computational skills. 2 credits; QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Violet Brown, Mitchell Campbell

  • PSYC 210: Psychology of Learning and Memory

    A summary of theoretical approaches, historical influences and contemporary research in the area of human and animal learning. The course provides a background in classical, operant, and contemporary conditioning models, and these are applied to issues such as behavioral therapy, drug addiction, decision-making, education, and choice. It is recommended that students enroll concurrently in Psychology 211. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 210 and 211 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology or equivalent or NEURO 127 – Foundations of Neuroscience with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; offered Winter 2025 · Julie Neiworth

  • PSYC 211: Laboratory Research Methods in Learning and Memory

    This course accompanies Psychology 210. Students will replicate classical studies and plan and conduct original empirical research projects in the study of human and animal learning and memory. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 210 and 211 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; offered Winter 2025 · Julie Neiworth

  • PSYC 216: Behavioral Neuroscience

    An introduction to the physiological bases of complex behaviors in mammals, with an emphasis on neural and hormonal mechanisms. Psychology 216 does not require concurrent registration in Psychology 217, however, a grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 216 and 217 to satisfy the LS requirement. Expected preparation: Psychology 110 or instructor permission. 6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Spring 2025 · Lawrence Wichlinski

  • PSYC 217: Laboratory Research Methods in Behavioral Neuroscience

    The course provides instruction and experience in methods of behavioral neuroscience, the study of the inter-relation of the brain (and hormonal systems) and behavior. The focus of this laboratory will be on standard methods of inducing behavioral changes via neural and hormonal manipulations in mammals. Psychology 217 does NOT require concurrent registration in Psychology 216. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 216 and 217 to satisfy the LS requirement. Expected preparation: Psychology 110 or instructor permission. 2 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Spring 2025 · Lawrence Wichlinski

  • PSYC 218: Hormones, Brain, and Behavior

    In this course, students will learn about how hormones act in the brain and the body to affect behaviors. This course draws heavily on biological psychology and students learn about techniques in neuroendocrinology to better understand cellular function, neural circuits, and the display of behaviors. Team-based learning and case studies are used to explore the endocrine system, sexual differentiation, the stress response, thirst and digestion, and reproductive behaviors. The experimental evidence upon which our understanding of hormones, brain, and behavior is constructed is emphasized. Enrollment in Psychology 219 is recommended. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 218 and 219 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 219: Laboratory Research Methods in Hormones, Brain, and Behavior

    The laboratory in Hormones, Brain and Behavior will consider the role of hormones in shaping the brain, the effect of experience on hormone levels, and neuroendocrine factors in the display of hormones. Students will learn common techniques in behavioral neuroendocrinology and will collect and analyze data. Psychology 219 requires current or prior registration in Psychology 218. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 218 and 219 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed or is in the process of completing any of the following course(s): PSYC 218 – Hormones, Brain & Behavior with grade of C- or better.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 220: Sensation and Perception

    We will address the question of how humans acquire information from the world to support action, learning, belief, choice, and the host of additional mental states that comprise the subject matter of psychology. In other words “How do we get the outside inside?” We will initially consider peripheral anatomical structures (e.g., the eye) and proceed through intermediate levels of sensory coding and transmission to cover the brain regions associated with each of the major senses. Readings will include primary sources and a text. In addition to exams and papers, students will conduct an investigation into an area of personal interest. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 220 and 221 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Spring 2025 · Julia Strand

  • PSYC 221: Laboratory Research Methods in Sensation and Perception

    This course accompanies Psychology 220. Students will replicate classical phenomena and plan and conduct original empirical research projects in the study of human perceptual processes. Psychology 221 requires concurrent or prior registration in Psychology 220. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 220 and 221 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed or is in the process of completing any of the following course(s): PSYC 220 – Sensation and Perception with grade of C- or better.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 232: Cognitive Processes

    Cross-listed courses CGSC 232/PSYC 232. An introduction to the study of mental activity. Topics include attention, pattern recognition and perception, memory, concept formation, categorization, and cognitive development. Some attention to gender and individual differences in cognition, as well as cultural settings for cognitive activities. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology/Cognitive Science 232 and 233 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology or CGSC 100 – Argument and Inquiry or CGSC 130 – Introduction to Cognitive Science with grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; offered Fall 2024 · Kathleen Galotti

  • PSYC 233: Laboratory in Cognitive Processes

    Cross-listed courses CGSC 233/PSYC 233. Students will participate in the replication and planning of empirical studies, collecting and analyzing data relevant to major cognitive phenomena. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both CGSC/PSYC 232 and 233 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Kathleen Galotti

  • PSYC 234: Psychology of Language

    This course will cover a range of aspects of language use. We will spend time discussing language production and comprehension, discourse processing, the relationship between language and thought, and language acquisition. Additionally, we will touch on issues of memory, perception, concepts, mental representation, and neuroscience. Throughout the course, we will emphasize both the individual and social aspects of language as well as the dynamic and fluid nature of language use. Concurrent registration in PSYC 235 is optional, but strongly recommended. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 234 and 235 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; CX, Cultural/Linguistics, LS, Science with Lab; offered Fall 2024 · Mija Van Der Wege

  • PSYC 235: Psychology of Language Laboratory

    This laboratory experience will expose students to a variety of methodologies employed by researchers interested in studying language. Throughout the term, students will both participate in experiments and conduct experiments. We will spend time discussing and performing typical analyses. Finally, students will be expected to become proficient in writing their experimental work in APA format and in presenting their research ideas in an oral format. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 234 and 235 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Mija Van Der Wege

  • PSYC 238: Memory Processes

    Memory is involved in nearly every human activity: We use our memory not only when we reminisce about the past, but when we study for our exams, talk to our friends, and tie our shoes. This course explores the psychological science of human memory. We will examine different types of memory, how we encode new memories and retrieve old ones, how to ensure a memory is never forgotten, and how to implant a false memory in someone else. In doing so we will look at both old and new research, and discuss how memory research can be applied to some real world environments, such as courtrooms and classrooms. By the end of the course you will be familiar with the major issues in the field of memory research and be able to evaluate the quality of the studies used as evidence in these debates. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 244: Positive Psychology

    This course evaluates the effort to use the tools of psychological science to understand the sources and nature of positive human strengths, characteristics, resources, and aspirations, and to apply any knowledge gained to help individuals and institutions function more effectively. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Fall 2024 · Neil Lutsky

  • PSYC 246: Human Sexuality

    Humans are a sexual animal. Not only do we engage in sexual behavior for procreation, but also at times for pleasure, intimacy, affiliation, and profit. Furthermore, we maintain sexual and gender identities that affect our behaviors and help us organize our social worlds. These identities develop over time, through our childhood and adolescence and into adulthood. We also place boundaries on sexuality and gender through norms, laws, and social conventions. Sexuality is at once commonplace and private, ubiquitous yet taboo. In this course, we will explore the many dimensions and paradoxes of human sexuality and its connection to our psychology. We will also consider these topics in the context of real-world phenomena and cross-cultural examples. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 248: Cross-Cultural Psychology

    Do psychological principles apply universally or are they culture specific? How does the exploration of psychological phenomena across cultures inform our understanding of human behavior? This course examines major theoretical and empirical work in the field of Cross-Cultural Psychology. A major component will be on applied products, such as a web site containing 1) a critical analysis of a particular cross-cultural psychological phenomenon, and 2) an evidence-based proposal for improving cross-cultural interaction. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; IS, International Studies, SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 250: Developmental Psychology

    An introduction to the concept of development, examining both theoretical models and empirical evidence. Prenatal through late childhood is covered with some discussion of adolescence when time permits. Topics include the development of personality and identity, social behavior and knowledge, and cognition. In addition, attention is paid to current applications of theory to such topics as: day care, the role of the media, and parenting. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 251: Lifespan Development

    This course explores the concepts, theories, and research on human development as it occurs over the lifespan and across contexts. We will learn about physical, cognitive, and psychosocial developmental milestones and challenges unique to each stage of human development. This exploration “from womb to tomb” includes infancy, early and middle childhood, adolescence, emerging adulthood, adulthood, and old age. Through readings, class discussions, and group and individual activities, students will have the opportunity to apply the concepts we are learning to the world around us. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Winter 2025 · Emily Hazlett

  • PSYC 252: Personality

    An examination of analytic models that attempt to characterize and explain aspects of behavior, thought, and emotion that are central to our conceptions of ourselves as distinctly human beings and as individuals. Original theoretical statements and relevant empirical literature will be consulted. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 252 and 253 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 253: Research Methods in Personality

    A laboratory to undertake research on topics in personality. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 252 and 253 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 254: Psychopathology

    This course will focus on causal factors and clinical presentations of mental disorders, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychotic disorders, among others. We will use an integrative approach that incorporates psychological, biological, interpersonal, and sociocultural perspectives. Methods of assessment and treatment will also at times be discussed. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 256: Social Behavior and Interpersonal Processes

    The social psychological analysis of human social behavior, interpersonal processes, and group influences. Concurrent registration in PSYC 257 is optional, but strongly encouraged. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 256 and 257 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Spring 2025 · Sharon Akimoto

  • PSYC 257: Laboratory Research Methods in Social Behavior and Interpersonal Processes

    Students will participate in the planning and replication of empirical studies of the social psychology of social behavior. Requires concurrent registration in Psychology 256. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 256 and 257 to satisfy the LS requirement. 2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Spring 2025 · Sharon Akimoto

  • PSYC 258: Social Cognition

    This course will focus on a social psychological analysis of social cognition, perception and judgment. It includes the examination of attitudes, stereotyping, attribution and the self. Concurrent registration in Psychology 259 is strongly suggested. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 258 and 259 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 259: Laboratory Research Methods in Social Cognition

    Students will participate in the design and replication of social psychological studies related to social cognition. Requires concurrent registration in Psychology 258. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 258 and 259 to satisfy the LS requirement. 2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 260: Health Psychology

    This course will examine how psychological principles can be employed to promote and maintain health, prevent and treat illness, and encourage adherence to disease treatment regimens. Within a biopsychosocial framework, we will analyze behavioral patterns and public policies that influence risk for cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic pain, substance abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases, among other conditions. Additionally, students in groups will critically examine the effects of local policies on health outcomes and propose policy changes supported by theory and research. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 260 and 261 to satisfy the LS requirement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Gisel Flores-Montoya

  • PSYC 261: Health Psychology Lab

    This course provides students with direct experience applying principles of health psychology. Students will engage in a term-long self-directed project aimed at increasing the frequency of a healthy behavior (such as exercising) or decreasing the frequency of an unhealthy behavior (such as smoking). Additionally, we will read and discuss case studies that relate to the current topic in the lecture portion of the course. A grade of C- or better must be earned in both Psychology 260 and 261 to satisfy the LS requirement.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Gisel Flores-Montoya

  • PSYC 263: Sleep and Dreaming

    This course will examine recent experimental findings and current perspectives on sleep, dreaming, sleep disorders, and states of consciousness. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Winter 2025 · Lawrence Wichlinski

  • PSYC 264: Relationship Science

    What makes two people attracted to one another? Why do some relationships last for decades, and others for just weeks? In what ways do our relationships influence our understanding of who we are? In this course, we will address questions like these by exploring the field of relationship science, a research area that leverages the scientific method to study interpersonal attraction and relationships. The content covered in this course will focus primarily on insights drawn from psychological research on romantic relationships, with particular attention to questions of how people across diverse backgrounds and identities experience their relationships. Expected preparation: Psychology 110

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Winter 2025 · Emma McGorray

  • PSYC 267: Clinical Neuroscience

    This course will explore brain disorders with significant psychological manifestations, such as Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and substance abuse, among others. Students will also receive a foundation in brain anatomy, physiology, and chemistry so that they may better understand the biological correlates of these clinical conditions. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 294: Directed Research in Psychology

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

     1 – 6 credit; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Julia Strand

  • PSYC 318: Psychopharmacology

    This course will cover the major categories of drugs that possess psychoactive properties, with an emphasis on their effects on the nervous system. In addition, drug use and abuse in a larger societal context will be examined. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 216 – Behavioral Neuroscience with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Winter 2025 · Lawrence Wichlinski

  • PSYC 354: Counseling Psychology

    This course provides an introduction to the field of counseling psychology, exploring its fundamental principles and practices. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of various counseling theories and treatment modalities, including their historical development and practical application. Students will also explore research methodologies utilized in counseling psychology and critically analyze empirical studies to inform evidence-based practice. Additionally, the course addresses professional issues, ethical considerations, and multicultural factors that influence counseling psychology, fostering cultural competence and awareness of diverse populations. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Spring 2025 · Emily Hazlett

  • PSYC 358: Cross-Cultural Psychology Seminar in Prague: Psychopathology

    In the West mental illness has traditionally been approached with a biomedical model that views it as independent of culture. By contrast the “relativist” position assumes that, to a large extent, human behaviors are culturally determined and that the etiology and manifestation of mental disorders are affected by society and culture. This course will address such issues as well as their implications for assessment and treatment through an examination of several Western and non-Western societies, with a special emphasis on Czech society. There will be several guest lectures by Czech psychology professors as well as excursions within Prague to psychiatric hospitals and clinics, where students will meet with Czech clinicians and patients. Prerequisites:

    Acceptance in Cross-Cultural Studies in Prague Program and student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; IS, International Studies, SI, Social Inquiry; offered Fall 2024 · Ken Abrams

  • PSYC 366: Cognitive Neuroscience

    It should be obvious that every process that goes on in the mind has physiological underpinnings. But, whether we can unlock the secrets of learning, memory, perception, language, decision-making, emotional responding, empathy, morality, social thinking, deception, and manipulation as they are supported by neurons and neural connections is a longstanding and elusive problem in psychology. Contemporary primary source articles are mostly used for this discussion-driven course, but a brief textbook/manual on brain processing is also required. The student should leave the class with a working understanding of brain processes and of contemporary theories of brain processes that may support many mental processes in humans. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology or BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution & Development and Lab or PSYC 216 – Behavioral Neuroscience or NEURO 127 – Foundations of Neuroscience with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP Exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam or received a score of 5 on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam.

     6 credits; QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 367: Neuropsychology of Aging

    With the aging population comes a variety of challenges, including those to cognitive health and decline. Neurodegenerative diseases create various forms of dementia and cause unique problems beyond those that are an outcome of healthy aging. The disabling effects of aging and dementia extend beyond the person to family, friends and wider community. The need to understand and extend knowledge of both healthy aging and the pathological changes that occur with neurodegenerative diseases with aging is of great importance. By understanding how the brain is impacted by age, dementia, and other clinical syndromes, both management of the cognitive issues and advances in treatments to improve mental functioning can be made. This course takes a neuropsychological approach to study healthy aging and neurodegenerative disease. In this seminar, lectures and discussions explore the cognitive, behavioral, and molecular aspects of healthy aging and neurodegenerative disease processes in humans. Cognitive topics include working memory, long term memory, attention, familiarity and recollection, emotion, and social factors that interact with aging. The physiological and cognitive outcomes of neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and various types of dementia are compared with the physiology and cognitive decline evident in healthy aging. Students will read primary articles on these topics, and propose a project based on course discussion and interactions with people at senior centers and convalescent centers in Northfield.  Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology or equivalent, PSYC 216 – Behavioral Neuroscience or NEURO 127 – Foundations of Neuroscience with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP Exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Fall 2024 · Julie Neiworth

  • PSYC 368: Neuropsychology of Aging Lab Practicum

    This lab practicum allows students registered in either Psychology 367 Neuropsychology of Aging or Sociology/Anthropology 252 Growing Up in an Aging Society to gain experience in studies of aging and physiological measures used in testing cognition. The practicum provides hand-on work; in the lab students learn to collect EEG on themselves and peers so that there is a deeper understanding of the data collected and expressed in published works with aging cohorts, and in weekly field trips, students will be able to join in games and social time with elderly clients at the local convalescent centers. Students will express ideas for research or programs for elderly clients from these experiences.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed or is in the process of completing any of the following course(s): PSYC 367 – Neuropsychology of Aging or SOAN 252 – Growing Up in an Aging Society with grade of C- or better.

     2 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Fall 2024 · Julie Neiworth

  • PSYC 370: Behavioral Neuroimmunology

    The immune system directly influences the central nervous system and behavior during both health and disease. The course will have an emphasis on animal behavior (e.g., memory and sociability assays) and techniques in neuroimmunology that range from genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR and DREADD) to immune cell function, detection of surface receptors, and protein expression (e.g., flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, immune cell migration assays, ELISA, and western blot.) The topics that will be covered range from how cytokines influence behavior to effects of gut microbiota in brain function and behavior. This course will primarily use empirical research that will help you develop a deeper understanding of molecular techniques, cell biology, and develop strong analytical skills of biological findings in immunology and its connection with animal behavior. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): NEUR 127 – Foundations Neuroscience & Lab, PSYC 216 – Behavioral Neuroscience with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; offered Winter 2025 · Gisel Flores-Montoya

  • PSYC 371: Evolutionary and Developmental Trends in Cognition

    Recent findings have brought to light some very compelling examples of humanlike cognition in nonhuman primates: tool use and tool making, family bonding, complex social behaviors such as cooperation, altruism, communication, and emotion. The study of infant cognition has also revealed more complex cognitive abilities in developing humans. Each of these topics is considered in the context of the cognitive workings of the primate mind, with emphasis on apes (gorilla, chimpanzee), monkeys (particularly cebus and rhesus varieties) and human children. The goal is to evaluate the uniqueness of primate cognition, both human and nonhuman. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology or BIOL 126 – Energy Flow in Biological Systems or PSYC 216 – Behavioral Neuroscience with a grade of C- or better or receive a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam or equivalent.

     6 credits; QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 375: Language and Deception

    In this course we will examine deception and persuasion in language use. We will take up three main issues. The first is what it means to deceive and how people deceive others through language. What methods do they use, and how do these methods work? The second issue is why people deceive. What purposes do their deceptions serve in court, in advertising, in bureaucracies, in business transactions, and in everyday face-to-face conversation? The third issue is the ethics of deception. Is it legitimate to deceive others, and if so, when and why? Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 232 – Cognitive Processes or CGSC232/PSYC 232 – Cognitive Processes or PSYC 234 – Psychology of Language or PSYC 238 – Memory Processes or CGSC 236 – Thinking, Reasoning, and Decision Making with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 379: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

    This seminar will focus on the biological and psychological components of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. We will also address the possible causes of these disorders, and examine some current controversies surrounding diagnosis and treatment. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 382: Topics in Social and Personality: Endings

    This seminar will examine the psychology of endings, including endings associated with psychotherapy, social interactions, personal relationships, social roles, literature and the arts, and life itself. We will address when and how endings occur, how we experience endings, and what makes an ending a good or poor one, among other issues. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 252 – Personality or PSYC 256 – Social Behavior and Interpersonal Processes or PSYC 258 – Social Cognition with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; offered Spring 2025 · Neil Lutsky

  • PSYC 384: Psychology of Prejudice

    This seminar introduces students to major psychological theories and research on the development, perpetuation and reduction of prejudice. A social and historical approach to race, culture, ethnicity and race relations will provide a backdrop for examining psychological theory and research on prejudice formation and reduction. Major areas to be discussed are cognitive social learning, group conflict and contact hypothesis. Psychology 256 or 258 recommended preparation.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; IDS, Intercultural Domestic Studies, SI, Social Inquiry; offered Winter 2025 · Sharon Akimoto

  • PSYC 386: Intervention Science: Using Psychology to Advance Social Good

    Many of the most pressing issues facing our world today, including prejudice/discrimination, climate change, health, conflict, and polarization/radicalization, ultimately stem from human behavior. As a science centrally focused on human behavior, psychology is well-poised to contribute meaningfully to developing solutions to these and other issues. In this class, we will review the rapidly expanding literature on intervention science, which involves employing psychological concepts and principles to change real-world outcomes. We will also study relevant behavioral science and motivational theories, as well as examining how findings from the lab can be translated to real-world applications. Students will also complete a final project that will involve conducting their own intervention experiment in the field. Students will leave the class equipped to use their knowledge of behavioral science to effect change in the real world to address the issues they care about.  Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 110 – Principles of Psychology with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; SI, Social Inquiry; not offered 2024–2025

  • PSYC 389: LGBTQ+ Psychology

    In this seminar, we will examine the psychology of LGBTQ+ people, focusing on topics such as LGBTQ+ identity development; predictors and consequences of anti-LGBTQ+ bias and discrimination; the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ people; and familial and relationship dynamics of LGBTQ+ populations. We will consider psychology's history of—and potential for—both contributing to and dismantling the inequities faced by LGBTQ+ populations. 

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): Psychology 110 – Principles of Psychology or GWSS 110 – Introduction to Gender, Women's & Sexuality or GWSS 200 – Gender, Sexuality and the Pursuit of Knowledge or GWSS 212 – Foundations of LGBTQ Studies with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Psychology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Psychology IB exam.

     6 credits; IDS, Intercultural Domestic Studies, SI, Social Inquiry; offered Spring 2025 · Emma McGorray

  • PSYC 394: Directed Research in Psychology

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

     1 – 6 credit; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Sarah Meerts, Julie Neiworth, Julia Strand, Mija Van Der Wege, Gisel Flores-Montoya, Emma McGorray

  • PSYC 399: Capstone Seminar

    Each of the three capstone seminars focus on a topic of interest to students in psychology. The goals of the course are to consider questions on a selected topic through reading primary research and discussion and review skills pertinent to scholarly investigation within the topic. Students are then mentored through a substantial paper related to the seminar topic. Prerequisites:

    Student is a Psychology major and has Senior Priority.

     6 credits; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Sharon Akimoto, Sarah Meerts, Julia Strand

  • PSYC 400: Integrative Exercise

    Students independently revise and extend the fall term paper, integrating the feedback from their faculty advisor. Based on this work, students submit a final comps paper (approx. 20 pages) that makes original contributions to the field of psychology through critiquing existing psychology primary sources, applying empirically-supported psychological theories to new questions, generating potential applied guidelines, and/or proposing new theories or empirical studies based on published theories and empirical research. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): PSYC 399 – Capstone Seminar with grade of C- or better.

     3 credits; S/NC; offered Winter 2025 · Julia Strand, Sarah Meerts, Sharon Akimoto, Julie Neiworth, Ken Abrams