Psychology

The following learning targets represent the major concepts studied and assessed in this course.

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Unit 1: Introduction to Psychology

• I can define psychology.
• I can compare and contrast the psychological approaches. (biological, behavioral, cognitive, social, psychoanalytic, evolutionary, and humanistic)
• I can explain the importance of the scientific method and critical thinking in regards to research methods.
• I can discuss ethics in animal and human research.

Unit 2: The Brain and Behavior

• I can describe the structure and function of neurons.
• I can explain how neurotransmitters affect behavior.
• I can identify the major structures of the brain and their functions.
• I can explain how the endocrine system influences behavior.

Unit 3: Human Development

• I can describe the stages of human development across the lifespan.
• I can compare major theories of cognitive and social development.
• I can explain how heredity and environment influence development.

Unit 4: Learning and Memory

• I can compare classical and operant conditioning.
• I can explain how reinforcement and punishment affect behavior.
• I can describe the processes involved in memory.
• I can explain factors that influence memory and forgetting.

Unit 5: Personality and Psychological Disorders

• I can compare major theories of personality.
• I can explain methods used to assess personality.
• I can identify characteristics of major psychological disorders.
• I can describe approaches used to treat psychological disorders.

Unit 6: Social Psychology

• I can explain how individuals are influenced by groups.
• I can describe factors that influence attitudes and behavior.
• I can analyze the impact of social and cultural influences on behavior.