PS275 Developmental Psychology I: Course Description

The primary goal of this course is to introduce you to the wide array of theories and empirical studies in developmental psychology. The course is designed as a survey course and will sample from the many perspectives of developmental psychology including, cognitive, social and behavioral approaches. Issues of physical, cognitive and social development will examined for the prenatal, infancy and early to late childhood periods. You will have an opportunity to experience first-hand many of the issues we cover in class through a placement in a community setting.

For a course outline and course materials click here (password required).



PS 375 Research in Developmental Psychology: Course Description

This course introduces students to qualitative as well as quantitative methods commonly used in developmental psychology. It follows the process of carrying out a research project that typically starts with a general, but rough idea about the nature of individual development in a particular area and moves on to more circumscribed hypotheses about developmental change and mechanisms that promote development. In the first stage of this process, researchers often rely on qualitative research methods whereas in the second stage quantitative procedures are employed.
The seminar provides students with hands-on experience on conducting and analyzing interviews, on collecting questionnaire data, on using computer software to analyze data (SPSS, ATLAS/ti) , on testing hypotheses and on presenting research findings, both orally and in writing. The empirical studies conducted in the seminar include 3- to 5-year old children and give students the opportunity to reflect on the particularities of having younger children as research participants.

For a course outline and course materials click here (password required).



PS 475 Moral Development: Course Description

This is an advanced seminar in developmental psychology that focuses on moral development.  We will discuss various theories on moral development that evolved over a longer period of time (classical theories as well as most recent advancements), and we will highlight controversial issues that have long dominated scholarly discussions in this field of research.  The seminar provides an integrative perspective of cognitive, emotional, motivational, and personality development as far as these aspects are related to matters of moral consciousness and moral conduct.

For a course outline and course materials click here (password required).



PS 480 Abnormal Child Psychology: Course Description

This seminar approaches Abnormal Psychology from a developmental perspective. It particularly focuses on developmental disorders that emerge in childhood or adolescence and that often have a lasting impact on adults' mental health and well-being. We will learn about different ways to describe developmental disorders and about various internal and external factors that put children at risk for developing such disorders. We will have a closer look at various syndromes (such as autism, attention deficit disorders, reading disorders, aggression, anxiety and depression), discuss theories of their etiology, and address issues of prevention. The seminar gives students an overview about the various psychological problems that may affect individuals' very early in their lives. Student presentations will focus on recent publications in this field of research.

For a course outline and course materials click here (password required).