PSY 2010 Social Processes of Behavior

Social behaviour is introduced as the study of social processes at a number of levels from the individual level through to more broadly base social phenomena. Some of the major concepts and area of social psychology are introduced (e.g., social research methods, socialization, self-esteem, altruism, aggression, communication and social skills, interpersonal relationships, family issues, prejudice, group processes, culture considerations, leadership and social influence. This course has a strong research component and students will be required to write a research report in a style suitable for psychology as part of their assessment. Students will also require email and Internet access to USQ Connect for this course.

PSY 2030 Developmental Psychology

The three goals of developmental psychology are to describe, explain, and optimize human development. This course aims to provide students with the knowledge necessary to achieve these goals. This course takes a lifespan approach, introducing students to essential theories and methodologies employed in developmental study, as well as the characteristics and major developmental tasks of individuals at each phase of the life span: prenatal, birth, infancy, toddler hood, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and the final phase of dying and death.

PSY 2040 Human Information Processing

The course starts with a revision of visual and auditory sensation that was covered in Foundation Psychology B. The course builds upon this material by examining visual and auditory perceptual processes and associated brain structures. Following perception, the course deals with attention looking at both the different types of attention and the different theories of how attention works. Memory over short retention intervals is then examined with an emphasis upon working memory. Finally the course looks at the factors involved in producing long-term memories.

PSY 2100 Research Methods In Psychology A

This course introduces the methods used to develop knowledge in the field of psychology. Topics covered include: formulating research questions, operationalising theoretical constructs, internal and external validity, sampling and assignment, and an introduction to survey and experimental methods. Data analysis techniques focus on a linear model approach to both ANOVA and Regression in both experimental and non experimental contexts. Planned comparisons using contrast weights in an ANOVA context are explored. The concepts of statistical inference, decision-making, and potential sources oferror developed in earlier courses are elaborated further. A computer statistical package is used to develop practical analysis skills and enhance conceptual understanding. Reliable access to a suitable computer is required.

PSY2110 Research Methods in Psychology B

This course builds upon the basic methods and tools of psychological research, extending the range and complexity of questions, which can be addressed. A wide diversity of research designs is introduced including non-reactive techniques, complex experimental and quasi-experimental designs and single-subject designs as ways of answering specific questions and dealing with potential confounds. The statistical and analytic tools associated with these more advanced techniques are also explored including factorial analysis of variance, and analytic comparisons.

PSY 3010 Assessment of Behaviour

This course is divided into two parts. The first concerns the principles of psychological testing, concentrating on questions of reliability and validity, norms, item analysis and the interpretation and evaluation of tests in general. The second part concerns particular areas of testing such as intelligence, abilities, specific aptitudes, and personality; making students aware of certain major tests in use, as well as a representative array of test typifying the above areas. In dealing with the various tests and concepts, major issues regarding test usage is highlighted.

PSY 3030 Abnormal Behaviour

The course involves an elaboration of the main concepts and issues regarding abnormal behaviours and mental illness. Major questions
addressed include:

• What is mental illness?
• 2. What types of maladaptive behaviours and psychological disorder are there?
• How are they classified?
• What are the proposed etiologies of these disorders and with what characteristics are they correlated?
• What general modes are available to intervene in disorders?

PSY 3050 Counselling Psychology

This course is designed to introduce the student to the theory and issues involved in Counselling. Various models of Counselling and behaviour change that constitute the field of Counselling psychology will be examined along with an introduction to the major theories and their leading techniques and interventions.