Texas State University
 
Department of Psychology
Psychology 208
601 University Dr.
San Marcos, TX 78666

Dr. Frank Barrios, Chair
Ph: (512) 245-2526
Fax: (512) 245-3153
info@www.psych.txstate.edu
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Undergraduate Course Descriptions
Select an Undergraduate Course
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1300 Introduction to Psychology - Group 0: Foundations of Psychology (Details...)
A survey of the major principles derived from research on human and animal behavior. Topics studied include learning, thinking, motivation, emotion, personality, the senses, perception, and the form and functions of the nervous system. PSY 1300 is a prerequisite for all other psychology courses.

Prerequisites: None

2311 Human Sexuality - Ungrouped (Details...)
A psychological and physiological examination of the human sexual experience from conception through old age. Current research findings serve as a basis for study. Major consideration is given to the human sexual system, the sexual act, sexual attitudes and behavior, and sexual complications.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

2315 Development Psychology - Group 0: Foundations of Psychology (Details...)
EFFECTIVE FALL 2006, THIS COURSE HAS BEEN REPLACED BY PSY 3300.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3300 Lifespan Development - Group 0: Foundations of Psychology (Details...)
A survey of the psychology of human development from the pre-natal period through adulthood. Emphasis is placed on cognitive, motivational, and physiological processes of development across the lifespan. (REPLACES PSY 2315 beginning in FALL 2006.)

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3301 Introduction to Statistics - Group 0: Foundations of Psychology (Details...)
The application of elementary descriptive statistics, statistical inference, and correlation and regression of behavioral science data, with an emphasis on the relationship of theory and methods in the research setting. Includes a 1 hour lab.

Prerequisites: Psychology Major standing, 2.0 or higher GPA

(WI) 3302 Experimental Design & Research Methods - Group 0: Foundations of Psychology (Details...)
Introduction to laboratory equipment and procedures, with basic instruction in experimental design, data collection and treatment, and technical report writing. Several psychological experiments and research reports will be required of each student. Includes a 1 hour lab.

Prerequisites: PSY 3301 with a C or higher

3312 Adolescent Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
A developmental psychology course designed to examine the complex characteristics of human cognitive and emotional life during the period of adolescence. Emphasis is directed toward the basis of behavior, interpersonal relationships, development, growth, and motivation.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300, PSY 2315 or PSY 3300

3313 Psychology of Adulthood & Aging - Ungrouped (Details...)
The development of individuals in the post-adolescent period, particularly after middle age. Topics studied include social, psychological, and physiological changes and problems associated with the aging process.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300, PSY 2315 or PSY 3300

(WI) 3314 Psychology of Consciousness - Ungrouped (Details...)
An introduction to theory, research, and experiential applications in the study of consciousness; topics studied include the findings and implications of post-Einsteinian science relevant to the study of consciousness.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3315 Abnormal Psychology - Group 1: Individual Differences (Details...)
An introduction to the study of abnormality: (1) issues in defining and evaluating it, (2) examples, (3) theories and research attempting to categorize, describe, and explain it, and (4) approaches used to prevent or change it when it is deemed a problem by the individual and/or society.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3316 Personality Psychology - Group 1: Individual Differences (Details...)
A comprehensive introduction to research, theory, and application in the field of personality. Individual differences and situation influences are examined concerning authoritarianism, achievement motivation, anxiety, intelligence, self-concept, interpersonal attraction, aggression, sexuality, and altruism. An integrative model is suggested for describing and predicting human behavior.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3321 Sensation & Perception - Group 2: Biological Bases (Details...)
An introduction to the processes of perception. Topics will include perceptual measurement, the physiological bases of perception, basic visual processes, and basic haptic, olfactory, and gustatory processes.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3323 Evolution and Behavior - Ungrouped (Details...)
A consideration of the evolution and function of behavior as viewed from a biological base. The course includes a comparative analysis of species-specific behaviors in man and lower animals. Laboratory periods will be devoted to observation and classification of behavior, as well as independent laboratory research.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300, PSY 3302, or consent of instructor

3325 Psychology of Persuasion - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course uses a socio-psychological perspective to understand the dynamics of persuasion and propaganda. It applies selected theories and research on social influence, persuasion, and attitude change to such areas as political and educational campaigns, product advertising, mass media and public opinion.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3331 Social Psychology - Group 3: Social Bases (Details...)
The study of how people influence each other. The course covers such topics as conformity, inter-personal attraction, prejudice, and aggression.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

(WI) 3332 Psychology of Women - Ungrouped (Details...)
The special problems and demands made on the woman within modern western culture. Topics studied include status, roles, values, opportunities, expectations, stress, and self-realization of the modern woman.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3333 Industrial Psychology - Group 3: Social Bases (Details...)
The study of applying psychological knowledge and techniques to the modern industrial environment. Topics studied include employee needs, attitudes, selection, testing, boredom, motivation, anxiety, and job satisfaction.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3334 Psychology of Human Diversity - Ungrouped (Details...)
Explanations about how the environment, genetics and culture shape human differences, and how these differences are linked to world progress and understanding are addressed.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3335 Forensic Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
Examines the relationships between psychology and the processes of the American courtroom. Sample issues to be addressed include; (a) What psychological theories are used to explain jury decision-making? (b) How accurate is the memory of eyewitnesses? (c) How do characteristics of defendants influence juries?

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

3336 Sports Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course examines the relationships, psychological concepts, and individual’s thoughts regarding sports, health and exercise. Sample topics include (1) current theoretical perspectives of personality factors at sports and exercise, (2) why people engage in sports, (3) exercise adherence, (4) mental skills, and (5) the psychological effects of sports and exercise.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

(WI) 3341 Cognitive Processes - Group 4: Learned Bases (Details...)
The acquisition and use of knowledge, contemporary research on perception, pattern recognition, memory, thinking, problem solving, and language comprehension will be considered.

Prerequisites: PSY 3302

(WI) 3350 Behavior Modification - Ungrouped (Details...)
The course provides theory, research, and application of psychological principles that affect humans in education, business, and personal life. Emphasis is placed on effective use of reinforcement, classroom management, self-control, relaxation, and assertiveness.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

(WI) 3352 Group Processes - Ungrouped (Details...)
A study of how the individual relates to his group membership. Students will analyze the development and functioning of their own groups, with attention to such issues as problems faced by group members in the early phases of a group's existence, leadership roles, group pressure, and trust.

Prerequisites: Instructor Approval

3353 Computer Applications in the Social & Behavioral Sciences & Education - Ungrouped (Details...)
The principles of data analysis and interpretation using SPSS. Topics studied include data entry and management, statistical concepts, hypothesis testing and the proper interpretation of SPSS output.

Prerequisites: PSY 3301 or equivalent with a grade of C or higher

(WI) 3361 Health Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course will survey contemporary theory and research on body/mind interaction in physical and mental health. Emphasis will be on personality, psychosocial, and stress factors in physical health, but the effects of physical health and life style on psychological well-being will also be covered. Other topics will include pain management, longevity and aging, and coping with illness and dying.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4318 Psychological Measurement - Ungrouped (Details...)
A study of the principles, concepts, and methods involved in the use of tests and inventories currently being used in the assessment of intelligence, aptitudes, interests, and personality, with emphasis on the proper administration, scoring, and evaluation of psychological instruments.

Prerequisites: PSY 3301

4322 Brain & Behavior - Group 2: Biological Bases (Details...)
Research findings and theoretical concepts concerned with the physiological, anatomical, and pharmacological bases of behavior. Topics covered include the sensory systems, the physiological mechanisms of motivation, and the physiological correlates of associate processes such as learning.

Prerequisites: PSY 3302

(WI) 4342 Learning & Memory - Group 4: Learned Bases (Details...)
A study of memory and learning in humans and animals. Attention is given to comparative cognition, cognitive and neuropsychological aspects of memory, and memory deficits.

Prerequisites: PSY 3302, Psychology Major standing, Communication Disorders Major, or Instructor Approval

4350 Reality Therapy/Choice Theory - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course focuses on Glasser’s concepts of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy. This course explores how the “total behaviors” and choices we make impact our lives, the kinds of relationships we want to have with others, health and quality of the life.

Prerequisites: PSY 3350

(WI) 4352 Introduction to Clinical Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
Overview of clinical psychology with emphasis on current theories and methods of individual psychotherapy. Class discussion of readings, films, audiotapes, and live examples illustrating these approaches. Experiential learning via class exercises in pairs and small groups, and by role-playing both therapist and client in a series of helping sessions. Practical focus on developing relationship skills and job skills.

Prerequisites: PSY 3315 or 3316

4390B Emotion - Ungrouped (Details...)

Prerequisites:

4390D Interpersonal Relationships - Ungrouped (Details...)

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390E Psychology in the Courtroom - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course has been assigned a new course number. Please see the description for PSY 3335.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390F Psychology of Persuasion - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course has been assigned a new course number. Please see the description for PSY 3325.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390G Reality Therapy/Choice Theory - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course has been assigned a new course number. Please see the description for PSY 4350.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390H Career Theory & Development - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course is no longer offered.

Prerequisites:

4390I Aging and the Corrections System - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course is no longer offered.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390J International Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390K British and American Courtrooms - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course is no longer offered.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390L Sports Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course has been assigned a new course number. Please see the description for PSY 3336.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390M Psychology and Opera - Ungrouped (Details...)
This course xplores the ways in which opera can enhance our psychological understanding of growing up, loving, and ageing. Topics include the psychology of music and theories of musical understanding.

Prerequisites: PSY 1300

4390N Psychopharmacology - Ungrouped (Details...)

Prerequisites: PSY 1300 or consent of instructor

(WI) 4391 History and Theory - Ungrouped (Details...)
Study of the evolution of psychology as a science through a systematic review of the principal scientific and philosophic antecedents of modern psychology, and analysis of the status of the major contemporary theoretical schools.

Prerequisites: Psychology Major or Minor, Junior or Senior standing

(WI) 4395 Independent Study - Ungrouped (Details...)
Students design and execute original research, or engage in extensive fieldwork, in the field of psychology under the supervision of a faculty member. All students planning to attend Graduate School are advised to enroll in the course.

Prerequisites: PSY 3302 and Instructor Approval

4396 Internship in Psychology - Ungrouped (Details...)
Students engage in extensive field work in a professional setting related to psychology. Upon satisfactory completion of all Internship course requirements, the student will receive three hours of course credit in psychology. May be repeated once for additional credit.

Prerequisites: Consent of instructor