This course explores the human side of climate change. Drawing from the domains of social, cognitive, developmental, and clinical psychology as well as interdisciplinary theories related to human decision-making, behavior and motivation, we will explore questions raised by the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on global climate change. Prerequisites: PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology or the equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25. (E)

An in-depth examination of controversial issues of concern to the study of the psychology of women and gender. Students are introduced to current psychological theory and empirical research relating to the existence, origins and implications of behavioral similarities and differences associated with gender. We examine the development of gender roles and stereotypes, power within the family, workplace and politics, and women’s mental health and sexuality, paying attention to social context, and intersectional identities. Prerequisites: PSY 100 & PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25.

This colloquium is concerned with the psychological processes underlying political phenomena. The course is divided into three sections: Leaders, Followers and Social Movements. In each of these sections, we examine how psychological factors influence political behavior, and how political acts affect individual psychology. Prerequisites: PSY 100 & PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25.

A study of human development across the lifespan. In this course, we learn about milestones of human development from conception to death, discuss and critically evaluate current theories of developmental psychology, and investigate the interplay of biological, psychological and contextual factors that shape development over time. Not open to first years. Prerequisite: PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25.

Survey of child psychopathology from a developmental perspective. Course covers theories of etiology as well as clinical treatment interventions for a range of childhood disorders and difficulties. Prerequisite: 202 and either 150 or EDC 235 (or their equivalent) or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 25.

This course examines the effects of drugs on the nervous system and associated changes in mood, cognition and behavior. Legal and illegal recreational drugs are considered, as well as therapeutic agents used to treat psychological illnesses such as depression and anxiety. Focus is on controversial issues such as binge drinking, addiction to prescription medications, the medical and recreational use of marijuana, the therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs, medication of children, the power of the pharmaceutical industry and the use of cognitive/performance enhancers.

We consider people’s understanding of their own and others’ mental states from a variety of perspectives: comparative psychology, neuroscience, cognitive, cross-cultural and developmental. The class analyzes and discusses primary psychological research on how such a "theory of mind" develops and the role it plays in social behavior and communication, as well as what is known about the brain mechanisms that underlie it and individual variations in theory of mind development arising from cultural, sensory and neurological differences. Enrollment limited to 25.

Same as PHI 213. A detailed examination of how children learn their language. Theories of acquisition of word meaning, syntax and pragmatics are examined, as well as methodology for assessment of children’s knowledge. Cross-linguistic and cross-cultural data and perspectives are considered, as well as applications in language therapy and education. Students undertake an original research project using transcript analysis, and read original research literature. Background in linguistics or child development is necessary.

Introduces students to a variety of methods used in psychological research. All sections of this course cover the basic methodological techniques of contemporary psychology such as observational, experimental and survey methods. Sections differ in the particular content theme used to illustrate these methods. PSY 100 or equivalent is required for PSY 202. We recommended that PSY 201 is taken prior to, or concurrently with, PSY 202. Priority is given to Smith College psychology majors and minors.

Introduces students to a variety of methods used in psychological research. All sections of this course cover the basic methodological techniques of contemporary psychology such as observational, experimental and survey methods. Sections differ in the particular content theme used to illustrate these methods. PSY 100 or equivalent is required for PSY 202. We recommended that PSY 201 is taken prior to, or concurrently with, PSY 202. Priority is given to Smith College psychology majors and minors.