Psychology
PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology (4 Credits)
An introductory course surveying fundamental principles and findings in classical and contemporary psychology. Topics typically include: the brain, learning, memory, development, emotion, behavioral genetics, personality, social psychology, psychopathology and therapies. In addition to these topics, students learn how to read and summarize primary psychological research. Enrollment limited to 22. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 120/ PHI 120 Intro to Cognitive Science (4 Credits)
Offered as PHI 120 and PSY 120. Cognitive Science is an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Mind, drawing from Cognitive psychology, Philosophy, A.I., Linguistics and Human Neuroscience. The class will cover five key problems: Vision and Imagery,Classes and Concepts, Language, Logic and Reasoning, and Beliefs, and look at both classic work and contemporary work highlighting the interesting questions. Students will be active participants in trying out classic experiments, exploring new ideas and arguing about the meaning and future of the work. Enrollment limited to 60. {M}{N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 130/ NSC 130 Clinical Neuroscience (4 Credits)
Offered as NSC 130 and PSY 130. Introduction to brain-behavior relations in humans and other species. An overview of anatomical, neural, hormonal and neurochemical bases of behavior in both normal and clinical cases. Discussions include the biological basis of sexual behavior, sleep, emotions, depression, schizophrenia, autism, ADHD and neurological disorders. The course focuses on clinical cases in human neuroscience. Open to entering students. Enrollment limited to 60. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring
PSY 140 Health Psychology (4 Credits)
This course provides a broad overview of the field of health psychology using foundational concepts, theories, methods, and applications. With a critical lens, the course examines "state-of-the-art" research and current gaps in knowledge to explore issues including conceptualizations of health and illness, stress and coping, and health behaviors. The course focuses on how health is constituted by and interacts with its multiple contexts, particularly social and environmental ones. Enrollment limited to 60. {N}{S}
Spring
PSY 150 Abnormal Psychology (4 Credits)
A study of psychopathology and related issues. Course covers a broad range of DSM-5 disorders. Recent clinical and experimental findings stressed, particularly as they relate to major conceptions of mental illness and treatment considerations. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Enrollment limited to 60. {N}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 170 Social Psychology (4 Credits)
The goal of social psychology is to understand and explain how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, and implied presence of others. At the heart of social psychology is the recognition that responses are dramatically influenced by social situations. The course provides students with an overview of research and theory in social psychology, focusing on the ways in which the study of social behavior is scientific. The course covers topics such as attitudes, persuasion, conformity, obedience, social self-concept, perception of others, stereotyping and discrimination, relationships, aggression, and helping behavior. Enrollment limited to 60. {S}
Fall
PSY 180 Psychology of Personality (4 Credits)
The study of the origin, development, structure and dynamics of personality from a variety of theoretical perspectives. Enrollment limited to 60. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 201 Statistical Methods for Undergraduate Research (5 Credits)
An overview of the statistical methods needed for undergraduate research emphasizing methods for data collection, data description and statistical inference including an introduction to study design, confidence intervals, testing hypotheses, analysis of variance and regression analysis. Techniques for analyzing both quantitative and categorical data are discussed. Applications are emphasized, and students use R and other statistical software for data analysis. This course satisfies the basis requirement for the psychology major. Students who have taken MTH 111 or the equivalent or who have taken AP STAT should take SDS 220, which also satisfies the major requirement. Restrictions: Students do not normally earn credit for more than one course on this list: ECO 220, GOV 203, MTH 220, PSY 201, SDS 201, SDS 220 or SOC 204. Enrollment limited to 40. {M}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 202 Introduction to Research Methods (4 Credits)
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. Priority is given to Smith College psychology majors and minors. Prerequisite: PSY 100. PSY 201 recommended (may be concurrent.) Enrollment limited to 18. {N}
Fall, Spring
PSY 209/ PHI 209 Colloquium: Philosophy and History of Psychology (4 Credits)
Offered as PSY 209 and PHI 209. The course introduces you to the philosophical debates behind the psychology of the mind, focusing mostly on work from the 20th century onwards. We focus on the philosophical implications of major historical figures in psychology and their approach to Mind (James, Freud, Skinner). We read contemporary work on the problems of reductionism (Can we just talk about brains?), consciousness (Why do we have it, is it necessary? Could we be zombies or automata?) and the nature of a coherent self (Is there one? Do we construct it? Does it end with our bodies?). Discussion and writing are weekly requirements. It is not intended as an introduction to psychology or philosophy, which is why there is a prerequisite. Prerequisite: At least one college-level course in philosophy or psychology. Preference given to psychology and philosophy majors. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 213/ PHI 213 Colloquium: Language Acquisition (4 Credits)
Offered as PSY 213 and 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. Prerequisites: PHI 236 or EDC 235. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 215 Colloquium: Brain States (4 Credits)
An exploration of how states of consciousness arise from differential brain activity. Analysis of neurological case studies, ethical dilemmas, experiments addressing mind-body interactions. Active participation in discussions of readings is required. Prerequisites: PSY 100, PSY 201 and PSY 202, or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25 students. {N}
Fall
PSY 216 Colloquium: Understanding Minds (4 Credits)
This course considers 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. {N}
Fall
PSY 217 Colloquium: Human Memory (4 Credits)
A common held view of memory is that it supports a rather narrow set of functions (e.g., being able to remember to take medicine or recall the name of a coworker). Memory actually serves a much broader function: it forms the sense self and allows humans to effectively communicate, solve novel problems, and plan for the future. While serving as the basis of the ability to function in everyday life, memory is also fragile and susceptible to various kinds of errors (such as in the case of false memories that lead to wrongful convictions). This course explores both the psychological and the brain basis of human memory in the hopes of trying to understand both the fragility of memory and its importance to human life. The course integrates data from cognitive, neuroimaging, and neuropsychological perspectives and addresses questions such as whether there is one type of memory or many, how is memory studied in and out of the laboratory, and whether memories can be changed for the better. Cannot be taken S/U. Prerequisite: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25. (E)
Spring, Variable
PSY 218 Colloquium: Cognitive Psychology (4 Credits)
Theory and research on human cognition, from the fields of cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Topics include visual perception, attention, knowledge representation, memory, language, problem-solving and consciousness. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 227 Colloquium: Brain, Behavior and Emotion (4 Credits)
What are feelings? How and when do you feelings occur? Why do feelings occur? In this course students learn what makes emotions what they are, and how they guide one through life. The syllabus covers decades of affective neuroscience, the study of how the brain perceives, processes and produces emotions, as well as evolutionary and cross-cultural aspects. The class explores how (and why) researchers study emotions in different species, and what the current state of knowledge is regarding the neuroscience of specific emotions like joy, fear and sadness. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 130, or NSC 210 and PSY 202, or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 230 Colloquium: Psychopharmacology (4 Credits)
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. Prerequisites: (NSC 210 or NSC 230) and (NSC/PSY 130 or PSY 202). Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Spring
PSY 235 Colloquium: Ethical Principles in Counseling (4 Credits)
This course explores professional and ethical issues that relate to mental health professions. Professional and ethical guidelines from multiple fields are considered. Students are tasked with applying these guidelines to counseling scenarios. Issues related to boundaries, confidentiality and client rights are explored. Students consider the roles that graduate students in the helping professions are expected to hold. Students leave this course having developed their own basis for ethical decision making in the mental health professions. Not open to first years. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 150. Restrictions: Not open to first-years. Enrollment limited to 25. (E) {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 237 Colloquium: Human Sexuality (4 Credits)
This class focuses on various aspects of Human Sexuality including physiology, endocrinology, sexual behavior and sexual orientation. There is a heavy focus on communication (both interpersonal and sexual). It is highly likely that students will feel some level of discomfort at points during the semester. Even students who grew up in a setting in which sex was normalized and discussed, some of this material may feel uncomfortable. The goal here is to increase students' comfort level with talking about these topics. This course approaches human sexuality from a non-binary and non-heteronormative perspective. Enrollment limited to 25. (E) {N}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 240 Colloquium: Health Promotion (4 Credits)
Why are so many people--even those whose basic physical needs are met--still challenged to eat adequately, exercise and sleep enough? We consider how human willpower tendencies interact with social, cultural and physical contexts to support (or thwart) health promoting activities. Based on a close reading of current psychological science and related areas of inquiry, students will study interventions to improve individual-level health, and in groups, design and implement a project focused on campus-level health promotion. Emphasis is on critically evaluating and applying primary empirical articles. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Recommended: PSY 140. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 253 Colloquium: Developmental Psychopathology (4 Credits)
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: PSY 202, and either PSY 150 or EDC 235, or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Spring
PSY 260 Colloquium: Psychology of Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood (4 Credits)
Exploring adolescents’ developing identity, psychosocial and cultural adjustment and their needs for acceptance, autonomy and intimacy in light of the major biological, cognitive and social changes of this phase. Emphasis is given to cultural concepts in adolescent/emerging adulthood psychology and development. Prerequisite: PSY 100, PSY 201 and PSY 202. EDC 235 or PSY 264 recommended. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Spring
PSY 261 Colloquium: Personality and Adulthood (4 Credits)
The study of infant and child development has a long and successful history. Psychologists know a lot about human growth in the early years, but less is known about later development. In recent decades, however, personality and developmental psychologists have converged on several themes that seem to define contemporary adulthood. The course studies these topics and the methodologies used to investigate them. Content areas examined include identity formation, work, relationships, aging consciousness and mortality. Emphasis is on the personological aspects of aging, including societal influences, and drawing inspiration from the humanities as well to understand the complex topic of development. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 262 Colloquium: Psychology and Literary Experience (4 Credits)
How might psychology enhance the appreciation of literature and the understanding of self? This class reads multiple theories of personality development, including Erikson’s classic proposition that humans grow in stages according to shifting biological, psychological and social capacities. In contrast, contemporary theorists like McAdams view personality as a continuously developing narrative with story-like components. By synthesizing different theoretical approaches, the class is in a position to interpret fiction and autobiography from a psychological lens, focusing on characters whose stories emphasize internal struggle. How do protagonists create a sense of unity, purpose and meaning in their lives? Prerequisite: PSY 100. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 263 Colloquium: Psychology of the Black Experience (4 Credits)
The purpose of this course is to educate, sensitize and stimulate thinking about varied psychological issues affecting African Americans. Foundational frameworks, models and concepts for understanding African American psychology in a context that includes an historical analysis of African American adaptation to American society is emphasized. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or PSY 201, or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 264 Colloquium: Lifespan Development (4 Credits)
A study of human development across the lifespan. In this course, students 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. Restrictions: Not open to first-years. Enrollment limited to 25. {S}
Fall, Spring
PSY 265 Colloquium: Political Psychology (4 Credits)
This colloquium is concerned with the psychological processes underlying political phenomena. The course is divided into three sections: Power and social structure, Leaders and followers, and Social Movements. In each of these sections, students examine how psychological factors influence political behavior and how political acts affect individual psychology. Prerequisite: PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25. {S}
Spring
PSY 266 Colloquium: Psychology of Women and Gender (4 Credits)
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. The course examines 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 202. Enrollment limited to 25. {S}
Fall
PSY 267 Colloquium: Moral Psychology (4 Credits)
An exploration of the nature of moral psychology. The class discusses how reason, emotion, cultural norms and social pressures shape moral judgments; how brain activity correlates with moral decision-making; and how to use psychological research on moral intuition to evaluate cultural and political disagreements. Prerequisites: PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25. (E) {S}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 268 Colloquium: The Human Mind and Climate Change (4 Credits)
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, the course explores questions raised by the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on global climate change. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 25. (E) {S}
Spring
PSY 269 Colloquium: Categorization and Intergroup Behavior (4 Credits)
A broad consideration of the nature of prejudice, stereotypes and intergroup relations from the perspective of social cognition with emphasis on issues of race and ethnicity. We encounter theories and research concerning the processes of self-and-other categorization, social identity, stereotyping, prejudice and strategies from the reduction of intergroup hostility that these approaches inform. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}{S}
Spring
PSY 272 Colloquium: Personality Disorders: Etiology, Assessment and Treatment (4 Credits)
This colloquium offers a broad overview and in-depth study of the etiology, assessment, and treatment of the 10 personality disorders recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). Some estimates suggest that roughly 15% of people in the general population meet criteria for a personality disorder. These disorders often go undiagnosed and untreated, and can lead to immense suffering and costs to the individual and society. This course emphasizes an integrative approach to personality disorders, which incorporates and analyzes theories and research from psychological, biological, interpersonal, and sociocultural perspectives using both text-based and empirical readings. Prerequisite: PSY 150 Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 273 Colloquium: Psychology of Career Development (4 Credits)
This course explores various theories of career development and the application of those theories to career coaching and personal career development. Career assessment measures and the utility of those measures are examined. Statewide and national resources for job seeking are reviewed. A multicultural approach to career coaching is taken throughout the course, with an eye to diversity and its role in the changing world of work. Enrollment limited to 25. (E) {S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 274 Colloquium: Close Relationships (4 Credits)
Why is one attracted to certain people? What makes a romantic relationship last? Is it better to see a romantic partner for who they really are or to see them through rose-colored glasses? This course grapples with the meaning of love, dating and sex, navigating difficult conversations, and what the deepest relationships reveal about oneself. Using an intersectional lens, the class explores the social psychology of close intimate relationships via reading, written reflection, and group discussion. Prerequisite: PSY 202 or SDS 201. Enrollment limited to 25. {S}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 287 Colloquium: Abnormal Psychology: Evidence–Based Practice (4 Credits)
In-depth study of anxiety disorders. Course examines research on the phenomenology, etiology and treatment for selected anxiety disorders and clarifies the nature and quantity of evidence supporting the efficacy of current treatments. Attention is devoted to the strengths and weaknesses of different research designs for answering specific questions about psychopathology and psychotherapy. The course highlights landmark studies and documents which treatments have been shown to be most effective for which types of patients. Prerequisites: PSY 100, PSY 150, and PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 25. {N}
Fall
PSY 304/ REL 304 Seminar:Happiness: Buddhist and Psychological Understandings of Personal Well-Being (4 Credits)
Offered as PSY 304 and REL 304. What is happiness? What is personal well-being? How are they achieved? This course examines the core ideas of the Buddhist science of mind and how they are being studied and employed by psychologists, neuroscientists, cognitive scientists, and psychotherapists. The focus of the course is the notion of "happiness," its cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary definition, as well as the techniques advocated for its achievement by both the Buddhist and the psychologist. Prerequisite: PSY 100, REL 105 or one course in Buddhist traditions, or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 15. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 305 Seminar: Human Flourishing (4 Credits)
Flourishing has been described as living a good, fulfilling life with a sense of purpose. Sometimes called thriving, it is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being. This seminar examines pathways to flourishing via close reading of empirical articles, class discussion and guided practices in and out of class. At the end of the semester, students give research-informed presentations about theories of flourishing, gaps in the literature and conditions that boost its prospects to a select group of staff members at the Smith College Museum of Art interested in the connections between museum practices and flourishing outcomes. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202, or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. (E) {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 312 Calderwood Seminar on Psychology in the Public Square (4 Credits)
One cannot turn on the radio or browse the internet today without encountering the latest fMRI findings or other technologically advanced results of contemporary psychological research. The primary goal of this course is to learn how to communicate such complex information to a non-specialist audience. Through a set of prescribed writing assignments, students develop skills in translating psychological theories and empirical evidence to the public. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall
PSY 314cf Seminar: Topics in Foundations of Behavior-Cognition in Film (4 Credits)
This seminar explores the cognitive processes underlying human perception and comprehension of film and the techniques filmmakers use to capitalize on these processes. Students read and discuss empirical articles and view relevant examples of film. Discussions range from change blindness and apparent motion to character identity and narrative. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 314di Seminar: Topics in Foundations of Behavior- Psychology of Disinformation (4 Credits)
This course requires students to examine and challenge their own constructions of reality. Students learn to differentiate disinformation from misinformation before exploring how disinformation proliferates. A heavy emphasis is placed on psychological concepts that explain: how people become exposed to disinformation; why some people believe it; why some kinds of disinformation are more effective than others; and some motivations for spreading disinformation. Contemporary and historical examples of disinformation are compared, and the role of the internet and mobile devices is examined. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 317 Seminar in Cross-Cultural Development (4 Credits)
The understanding of how children grow, learn and think is largely based on studying WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic) populations. Findings from just 12% of the global population are being used to inform worldwide policies in education, parenting and public-health. This course approaches the study of child development from a cross-cultural lens. The class studies how cultural norms, research and power structures impact specific areas of development. Students gain an understanding of the empirical psychological research on cross-cultural development and apply insights from anthropology, sociology and history to the study of psychology. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 320 Research Seminar in Biological Rhythms (4 Credits)
Design and execution of original research on topics related to the physiology of biological rhythms. Health consequences of disruption in biological rhythms are studied. Prerequisites: PSY 202 or NSC 230. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 321 Research Seminar: Cognitive Development (4 Credits)
Cognitive development is the study of changes in the ability to think, perceive, understand and communicate. Changes in cognitive abilities, such as perception, attention, memory, emotion regulation and language, are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental and cultural factors. In this research seminar, students gain hands-on experience conducting research to examine key questions about cognitive development. In addition to covering various aspects of the research process including experimental design, participant recruitment, data coding, statistical analysis and scientific writing, the class also delves into open developmental science practices. This includes exploring ways to improve transparency, rigor and reproducibility in research practices. Prerequisites: PSY 201, SDS 201 or SDS 220, or equivalent, and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 326pr Seminar: Topics in Biopsychology-Parenting (4 Credits)
This course examines the neurobiological processes that underlie parental behavior. Students acquire understanding of (1) how the experience of pregnancy and/or parenthood manifests in relevant neural circuitry to yield complex caregiving behavior, (2) how neuropsychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and addiction interact with parental neurobiology and behavior and (3) how neuroscience and psychology researchers approach answering the most pressing questions in the subfield of parental behavior. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 326tp Seminar: Topics in Biopsychology-Translational Psychology (4 Credits)
The goal of this seminar is to deepen students’ ability to critically appraise and communicate research into the biological basis of psychological phenomena and to understand how this integrates with the broader contexts of humanity and society. The class discusses the philosophy and history of biological explanations of behavior, emotion and cognition, and delves into current advanced research methods focusing specifically on how we translate knowledge from non-human animal models to humans. Students cofacilitate classes exploring how specific methods have advanced understanding of the biological basis of psychological phenomena across species. Students also write an academic essay critically evaluating primary research on a psychological phenomenon of their choice. Prerequisite: PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 328 Research Seminar in Cognitive Neuroscience-Memory and Beyond (4 Credits)
How is the human brain studied, and how is the brain linked to cognitive function? This course introduces students to the research process in cognitive neuroscience. This course focuses on the cognitive neuroscience of memory and related functions, including imagination and creative thought. The cognitive neuroscience methods covered include functional magnetic resonance imaging, event-related potentials and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Students engage with all steps of the research process, including: literature review, study design, analysis, and scientific writing and presentation. Students gain research skills that can be applied outside of this course and learn to act and think like a scientist. Cannot be taken S/U. Prerequisite: PSY 202 or equivalent. Coursework in cognitive psychology or neuroscience recommended. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 340 Seminar: Psychosocial Determinants of Health (4 Credits)
This course examines scientific perspectives on how psychological and social factors influence the development and progression of physical health and illness. Discussions include psychosocial origins of health disparities, relationships and health, emotion and disease, and placebo effects. The course critically evaluates current empirical research and designs appropriate future studies. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Preference to those who have completed a health psychology course. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 343 Calderwood Seminar: Psychosomatic Medicine (4 Credits)
How we think and feel can have a profound impact on our health. Through the interdisciplinary lens of psychosomatic medicine, we critically evaluate empirically-supported embodiment practices (e.g., breathwork, meditation, visualization) for preventing metabolic and cardiopulmonary diseases, major causes of death globally. We highlight recurring psychologically-mediated processes including placebo effects, emotion, and patient-practitioner relationships. More broadly, we consider how individual healing is embedded in social structural, cultural, and historical contexts, and begin envisioning what decolonized and liberatory healing means in the 21st century. The key emphasis of this course is ethically translating scientific research in this domain for public non-specialist audiences. Prerequisites: PSY 140 and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and Seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 345 Research Seminar: Feminist Perspective on Psychological Science (4 Credits)
Research Seminar. In this advanced methods course, students study feminist empirical approaches to psychological research. The first part considers several key feminist empiricist philosophies of science, including positivist, experiential and discursive approaches. The second part focuses on conceptualizations of gender beyond difference-based approaches and their operationalization in recent empirical articles. The capstone is an application of feminist perspectives on psychological science to two group projects-quantitative and qualitative, respectively-in the domain of health and well-being. Prerequisites: PSY 202 and (PSY 140 or PSY 266). Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 347 Seminar: Psychological Perspectives on Healing Racism (4 Credits)
This course explores a range of psychological perspectives on racism: what it is, how it operates and resulting approaches to healing it. The course then considers racialization of key resource domains globally: e.g., time, power and health. Students apply their understandings to a topic of their choosing and practice communicating their findings for academic and lay audiences, respectively. Prerequisites: PSY 140 and PSY 202. Enrollment limited to 12. Juniors and seniors only. Instructor permission required. (E)Prerequisites: PSY 140 and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. (E) {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 352hb Seminar: Topics in Advanced Clinical Psychology-High-Risk Behaviors in Psychopathology (4 Credits)
This seminar focuses on a comprehensive understanding of the science, study and treatment of high-risk behaviors in severe psychopathology. Discussions include: alcohol/substance use, disordered eating, impulsivity, and self-injurious thoughts and behaviors. Readings involve empirical studies and theoretical papers that have shaped the study of these behaviors and their relationship/presence in DSM-5. Students evaluate published research based on theory, methodological rigor, ethical considerations, diversity/inclusion and current gaps in the literature that contribute to difficulty in predicting and treating high-risk behaviors in clinical practice. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 150 or equivalent. PSY 202 or SDS 201 strongly recommended. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 352pt Seminar: Topics in Advanced Clinical Psychology-Psychological Trauma (4 Credits)
This seminar addresses topics related to psychological trauma including: history of traumatology, trauma epidemiology, stress and trauma disorders, ethnocultural variation in trauma, psychophysiological assessment of trauma, evidence based treatment of trauma disorders and posttraumatic growth. Recommended prerequisites: PSY 100, PSY 150, PSY 253 and NSC 130/ PSY 130. This seminar regularly address emotionally distressing topics (e.g., physical and sexual abuse). Students should only choose this course if able to fully engage with such topics. Enrollment limited to 12. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 353 Seminar in Advanced Developmental Psychopathology (4 Credits)
Examination of the empirical and theoretical research relevant to anxiety disorders and their associated features in youth. Using a developmental perspective, the course focuses on risk factors, theoretical models and methods of assessment and intervention. Prerequisites: (PSY 100 and PSY 150) or PSY 253 or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Spring
PSY 355 Practicum Seminar in Clinical Psychology (4 Credits)
This course provides group instruction and supervision for a variety of mental health practicum placements. Undergraduate students are placed in community settings and have local mentoring by masters- level social work students. This course includes a thorough examination of community entry and engagement, clinical ethics and relevant obligations. It also includes a review of evidence-based interventions and the theories that accompany them. Special focus is given to issues of diversity and inclusion. Prerequisites: PSY 100, and one or more of the following: PSY 130, PSY 150, PSY 230, PSY 250, PSY 287, PSY 350, PSY 353 or PSY 354, or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Spring
PSY 358 Research Seminar: Clinical Psychology (4 Credits)
An introduction to research methods in clinical psychology and psychopathology. Includes discussion of current research as well as design and execution of original research in selected areas such as anxiety disorders, PTSD and depression. Prerequisite: PSY 100, PSY 201, PSY 202 and a relevant PSY intermediate colloquium course. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring
PSY 360 Seminar: Peer Relationships (4 Credits)
Covers theory and research on childhood and adolescent peer relationships. Topics include socialization processes, friendships and peer networks, and the interplay of biological, psychological and contextual factors that shape social interactions in the peer group. Some questions addressed: How do humans form friendships? What qualities make people liked by their peers? Is there a difference between being ignored by other kids and being rejected by them? Have text messaging and social media sites changed the way humans communicate with each other? Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 201 or equivalent. A previous course in developmental psychology is recommended but not required. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {S}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 363 Research Seminar: Adolescent Sociopolitical Development (4 Credits)
This research seminar introduces undergraduates to the field of sociopolitical development, which explores how adolescents build the motivation and skills to engage in political and social systems with the goal of fighting inequality and resisting oppression. Students learn the basics of qualitative inquiry and apply these skills to questions of civic development and empowerment in late adolescence/emerging adulthood. May be repeated. Cannot be taken S/U. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Additional coursework in developmental psychology is highly recommended. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Spring
PSY 364/ SDS 364 Research Seminar: Intergroup Relationships (4 Credits)
Offered as PSY 364 and SDS 364. Research on intergroup relationships and an exploration of theoretical and statistical models used to study mixed interpersonal interactions. Example research projects include examining the consequences of sexual objectification for both women and men, empathetic accuracy in interracial interactions and gender inequality in household labor. A variety of skills including, but not limited to, literature review, research design, data collection, measurement evaluation, advanced data analysis and scientific writing are developed. Prerequisites: PSY 201, SDS 201, SDS 220 or equivalent; and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {M}{N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Alternate Years
PSY 371wb Seminar: Topics in Personality-Well Being (4 Credits)
A survey of current psychological research on the factors that contribute to a person's sense of well being. What are the components of happiness? What are the biological, personality and contextual factors that contribute to that happiness? How does a person's sense of well being influence health, relationships and other important life outcomes? Prerequisites: PSY 170 or PSY 180. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Spring, Variable
PSY 372 Seminar: Psychobiography-The Study of Lives (4 Credits)
This course considers how psychologists approach the study of individual lives. The first part of the course focuses attention on Freud and psychoanalysis. His book on Leonardo da Vinci is considered the first psychobiography--the application of psychological theory to understand the lives of historical and contemporary figures. Although problematic in many ways, Freud’s ideas and those of his heirs are a theme running throughout the course. In addition to Freud, students read a variety of short and long psychobiographies, discussing how they improve the understanding of psychology and the individual under scrutiny. Prerequisite: PSY 180, PSY 260, PSY 261, PSY 262 or PSY 264. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}{S}
Fall, Spring, Annually
PSY 373sc Research Seminar: Topics in Personality-Self-Control (4 Credits)
In this course, students do all the major components of conducting a research exploration in the field of Personality Psychology. The focus is the study of self-control. More specifically, the class examines and designs research addressing delay of gratification as one adaptive expression of self-control. To do this, students work with an archival data set that is housed here at Smith and contains observations of participants who were observed on a delay of gratification task as preschoolers. One of the objectives is to design follow-up assessments for administrations to the participants in this work who are now in their mid-50’s. In addition, with some good fortune, students collectively design and conduct an experiment to examine some aspect of delay of gratification in current preschool children. Prerequisites: PSY 270 or PSY 271. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 374 Seminar: Psychology of Political Activism (4 Credits)
This seminar focuses on people’s motivations to participate in political activism, especially activism around social issues. Readings include theoretical and empirical work from political psychology paired with personal accounts of activists. Students consider accounts of some large-scale liberal and conservative social movements in the United States, and conduct an in depth analysis of an activist's oral history obtained from the Voices of Feminism archive of the Sophia Smith collection. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {S}
Spring
PSY 375 Research Seminar: Political Psychology (4 Credits)
An introduction to research methods in political psychology. Includes discussion of current research as well as design and execution of original research in selected areas such as right wing authoritarianism, group consciousness and political activism. Prerequisite: PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Fall, Spring, Variable
PSY 376 Seminar: Psychology and Law (4 Credits)
Why would a person confess to a crime they didn’t commit? What makes eyewitnesses identify the wrong suspect? How does police body camera footage shape jurors’ decisions? And how does one design research to answer these questions and inform policy interventions? This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary study of psychology and the law, focusing on how psychological science impacts and can be used to explain events in the courtroom and other legal settings. Students critically analyze research at the intersection of psychology and law, and consider how it can and should be used to impact legal policy. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {N}
Spring, Variable
PSY 377 Research Seminar: Justice Perceptions (4 Credits)
How do people evaluate whether they have been treated fairly or unfairly by authorities? Why do different people come to different conclusions about video evidence? How can policy be designed to promote more just legal outcomes? Students in this course conduct research projects relating to how people perceive and make decisions about justice, both in the legal system and beyond. Students engage with all steps of the research process, including: literature review, study design, data analysis , and scientific writing and presentation. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and PSY 202. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. {S}
Fall, Alternate Years
PSY 400 Special Studies (1-4 Credits)
For qualified juniors and seniors. A scholarly project conducted under the supervision of any member of the department. Instructor permission required.
Fall, Spring
PSY 431 Honors Project (8 Credits)
Department permission required.
Fall, Spring
PSY 432D Honors Project (6 Credits)
This is a full-year course. Department permission required.
Fall, Spring