A first-year introduction to issues and various theories in psychology which allow students to reflect on their personal social, mental, and spiritual development. The course emphasizes various attitudes and skills which contribute to academic success as well as providing a better understanding of the specific religious and social culture of Point Loma Nazarene University. Discussions, lectures, and small group experiences are the major components of this course.

A survey of psychology as an empirical/behavioral science. Topics include biological correlates of behavior, learning, cognition, emotion, motivation, personality, assessment, development, psychopathology, psychotherapy, and social psychology. Students should take PSY 1003 if they do not meet the criteria for PSY 1001.

Students are placed in local mental health or social service agencies to obtain direct exposure in the field. The goal is to help them evaluate their career options and direction.

An introductory survey of classic theories and contemporary empirical research in the fields of personality and adult development psychology. Distinct domains of knowledge regarding human nature, individual differences, and adult development and aging are covered. Emphasis is placed on developing a greater capacity for self-awareness and critical thinking.

A study of the anatomical and physiological bases of mental events and behavior.

A systematic study of the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of the individual from birth through adolescence.

An examination of the scientific study of optimal functioning. Emphasis is placed on leading a meaningful and fulfilling life that benefits both person and society. Small group activities and daily assignments are required.

A study of the theories and methods of social interactions in the development of personal and group behavior. Topics include attitudes, communication, and pro-social and anti-social behaviors.

Study of etiology, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of various forms of abnormal behavior from various psychological perspectives.

This course provides an overview of the fields of clinical and community psychology. It focuses on individual, family and systems, social-community, bio-psycho-social, and health interventions. Career directions within the mental health professions are introduced. Theories and interventions include cognitive-behavioral, humanistic-existential, psycho-dynamic-psychoanalytic, and systems. Focus is on how therapists apply therapeutic knowledge in a variety of settings.

Introduction to the psychological study of morality, prosocial behavior, and character development, including a survey of historical and contemporary theories of morality. Includes a particular emphasis on the role of cultural norms and values, as well as an analysis of the ways in which such values are developed and transmitted in contemporary culture (e.g., media, academics, family, etc.). Small group activities are included.

A group method experience which introduces theories used to modify, ameliorate, or change personal behavior. Each student is required to lead discussions with a group of up to ten freshmen students in order to discuss and explore various topics pertaining but not limited to social, mental, and spiritual development as they transition to college.

A laboratory learning experience in the formation and development of small group processes with emphasis upon understanding the effects of individual dynamics on the group.

A laboratory learning experience in building intimate and long-lasting marriage relationships. The course utilizes research based interventions that have effectively decreased the risk of divorce. This course must be taken with your spouse or fianc‚.

A detailed study of selected psychological assessment instruments used in clinical and research settings. Emphasis is placed on reliability and validity, as well as selection of tests for diagnosis, treatment planning, and research.

Survey of behavioral, personality, and psycho-biological components of human sexuality, with emphasis upon delineation of facts from sexual myths, social context, and values.

Introduction to the normative stages and crises affecting families over the life span, and to the major theories of family and marital psychotherapy. Emphasis on how various models work with relational systems to facilitate development through times of crisis and developmental transition. Also focuses on therapeutic issues of substance abuse, and on legal issues involved in child, spousal, and elder abuse. Family developmental theories are applied to community organizations in order to assist students in understanding how system principles are used in community consultation.

Students gain experience in methods of design, data collection, management, and analysis. Students begin a significant research project.

Study of design and of research in psychology and the use of statistics. Practice in the integration of design and statistics is included. Students finish a significant research project.

A study of important ideas and debates in the history of psychology as they reappear in contemporary theory and research (e.g., the mind-body problem; nature-nurture). This course also provides a comprehensive review of important theories and findings in psychology in preparation for the GRE Subject Exam. An overview of the graduate school application process is offered.

A study of the major theories and empirical findings in the fields of cognition and learning, as well as practical applications to human behavior.

More detailed study of issues involved in the integration of theological insights and psychotherapy approaches within the therapeutic setting. Includes an overview of the historical relationship between religion and psychotherapy, differing models of the therapeutic relationship, and various models for integrating psychotherapeutic theory with theological world views. Introduces specific issues that arise in conducting therapy with religious persons, including criteria for evaluating healthy and unhealthy forms of religious belief.

This course surveys some of the latest research in positive and moral psychology that concerns how we live a good life in a world with others. It addresses three perennial questions about personal and social well-being: What makes a good life good? What makes a good relationship good? And, how do persons change for good? It examines theory and research in three new psychological literatures: the science of a flourishing life, the science of love and virtue, and the practical neuroscience of moral change. Students will participate in experimental exercises that this new science suggests will enhance our motivation and capacity for moral goodness.

An introduction to selected topics in this sub-division of psychology, including religious conversion and spiritual development (especially Christian); dynamics of religious experience; the nature of altruism and love; and the impact of spiritual practices on character development, psychological well-being, and health. The course prepares students for graduate study in topics related to the integration of psychology and Christian (especially Wesleyan) practical theology.

Students are placed in local mental health or social service agencies to obtain training in specific psychological skills.

Detailed study of selected individual topics in psychology. Designed for advanced students to go deeply into an area not included in the curriculum.

Open to students of proven ability. Designed for students to undertake a significant self-initiated research project.