Psychology

Understand the evolving nature of psychology and the methods and measurements used to study behavior and mental processes. This includes the behaviors related to sensation, perception, and consciousness; how biology influences psychology; the cognitive, moral, and social development throughout the human lifespan; and the causes and effects of psychological phenomena.

Analyze developments in the field of psychology as a social science. Developments may include:<ul><li>Scientific methods</li><li>Empirical research</li><li>Development of theories</li><li>Demarcation of psychology as a pseudo-science</li><li>Contemporary applied psychology</li></ul>

Compare contemporary perspectives used by psychologists.

Analyze methods for collecting data in the field of psychology.

Evaluate the impact of American Psychological Association (APA) and federal guidelines on the ethical treatment of human and nonhuman research participants (e.g., informed consent, avoiding harm, respect for individual rights).

Analyze how the processes of sensation and perception influence experiences and expectations in one's environment.

Compare different stages of consciousness:<ul><li>Conscious</li><li>Unconscious</li><li>Sleep states</li><li>Other states such as meditation, relaxation, hypnosis, and flow state</li></ul>

Explain the effects of the brain, nervous system, and endocrine system on behavior.

Analyze interactions between biological factors and life experiences and their influences on behavior.

Explain how lifespan development (e.g., childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging) influences behavior and human interactions.

Evaluate the methods of conditioning and learning theories.

Evaluate biological processes and disorders associated with memory.

Examine measures of intelligence and compare how measures and perceptions of intelligence such as theories, tests, cultural understanding, and multiple perspectives have changed over time.

Students will explain theories of motivation, emotion, and factors that influence emotional interpretation and expression.

Students will examine theories of personality, assessment, and influences related to personality.

Evaluate causes, impacts, and treatment of psychological disorders.