Psychology

Course Description:
This course provides a broad overview of the field of psychology, including its history, theories, research methods, and applications. Topics covered include biopsychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Through lectures, discussions, readings, and experiential activities, students will gain an understanding of the core concepts and principles of psychology.

MODULE 1: Introduction to Psychology

Overview of psychology as a science
Historical perspectives and major schools of thought
Contemporary approaches to psychology

MODULE 2: Research Methods in Psychology

Scientific method and research design
Descriptive, correlational, and experimental research methods
Ethical considerations in psychological research

MODULE 3: Biological Bases of Behavior

Structure and function of the nervous system
Neurons and neurotransmitters
Brain regions and their roles in behavior and cognition

MODULE 4: Sensation and Perception

Sensory processes (vision, hearing, taste, smell, touch)
Perceptual processes and illusions
Factors influencing perception (attention, culture, context)

MODULE 5: Learning and Conditioning

Classical conditioning and operant conditioning
Observational learning and social learning theory
Applications of learning principles in behavior modification

MODULE 6: Memory and Cognition

Models of memory (sensory memory, short-term memory, long-term memory)
Encoding, storage, and retrieval processes
Problem-solving, decision-making, and cognitive biases

MODULE 7: Developmental Psychology

Theories of development (Piaget, Erikson, Vygotsky)
Lifespan development (prenatal development, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, aging)
Factors influencing development (genetic, environmental, cultural)

MODULE 8: Social Psychology

Social cognition and attribution theory
Social influence (conformity, obedience, persuasion)
Group dynamics and intergroup relations

MODULE 9: Personality Theories

Major approaches to personality (psychodynamic, humanistic, trait, social-cognitive)
Assessment of personality (projective tests, self-report inventories, behavioral observations)
Personality development and change

MODULE 10: Psychological Disorders

Classification and diagnosis of psychological disorders (DSM-5)
Major categories of disorders (anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, etc.)
Etiology, treatment, and prevention of psychological disorders

MODULE 11: Therapies and Interventions

Overview of psychotherapy approaches (psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, etc.)
Biomedical therapies (medication, electroconvulsive therapy, psychosurgery)
Alternative and complementary therapies