Lecture 01

Introduction

1. Course Syllabus
1. Course Content
2. Grading
3. Resources
4. Etiquette
2. What is Psychology?
1. Scientific study of mind, brain, & behavior
2. Careers in Psychology
3. Academic Psychology
3. Pseudopsychologies

Overview

In this introductory lecture, I tried to convey a sense of psychology's breadth. All topics that concern human behavior and functioning (e.g., dreams, jealousy, tickling, and war) interest psychologists. I also wanted you to be aware that although there are many different kinds of psychologists, our focus will be on research generated and reported by academic psychologists (and scientists in related fields). Within academia, psychology sits at the center of the biological and social sciences, and the humanities. Not all psychological phenomena can be understood from these various perspectives, but many can. Finally, I wanted you to be aware of the assumptions that guide contemporary psychological research within academic psychology, and be familiar with the common divisions that organize psychology departments.

Specifics

1. Identify three assumptions that guide contemporary psychological research.
2. Distinguish among three types of psychotherapists with respect to their advanced degree (e.g., Ph.D.), and their ability to diagnose psychological disorders and prescribe medication.
3. Identify various areas that comprise psychology departments at most colleges and universities.

Careers

Career	Description
Psychotherapist
Clinical
Counseling
Psychiatry
Business
Academic