PSYCH1101 - Introduction to Psychology I

Course Details

• Tutor: Candice Ockert
• Unit Convener: Associate Professor Mem Mahmut
• Textbook: Psychology From Inquiry to Understanding
• Research Engagement: Login to SONA site

Course Overview

• Introduction to the broad and diverse field of psychology.
• Covers theoretical basis and practical applications.
• Develop communication skills through group presentations.
• Apply empirical psychology for social good.

Learning Outcomes

• ULO1: Demonstrate knowledge of core psychology principles and theories.
• ULO2: Engage in scholarly inquiry and research analysis.
• ULO3: Communicate psychological concepts effectively.
• ULO4: Apply knowledge of psychology in culturally appropriate ways.
• ULO5: Demonstrate ethical behavior and values in psychology.

Key Topics Covered

Week 1: Introduction to Psychology

• Definition: Scientific study of thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
• Fields of Psychology:
  • Learning, Biological, Social, Clinical, Personality, Cross-cultural, Perception, Organizational, Neuropsychology, Forensic, Cognitive, Developmental, Indigenous.

Week 2: Indigenous Psychology

• Importance of learning Indigenous psychology.
• Key Concepts: Culture, Positivism, Critical Psychology, Critical Race Psychology, Coloniality.
• Common Psychology Presumptions: Universality, Western centrality, Deficits, Equivalency.
• Historical Impact: Role of psychology in colonial processes.
• Indigenous Standpoint Theory: Self-determination and governance.
• System Change Recommendations: Culturally responsive services, Decolonizing research, Social determinants of mental health.
• Indigenous Psychology Movement: Global movement promoting decolonization.

Week 3: History of Psychology

• Levels of Analysis: Multiple perspectives in psychology.
• Dangers of Pseudoscience: Opportunity costs, direct harm.
• Scientific Skepticism: Critical thinking and reflexivity.
• Nature-Nurture Debate: Role of evolution in psychological traits.

Week 4: Psychological Assessment

• Assessment Purpose: Clinical, Educational, Neuropsychology, Forensics, Organizations, Research.
• Principles of Assessment: Validity, Reliability, Standardization, Fairness, Practicality, Ethical considerations.

Week 5: Learning

• Learning Theories: Classical and Operant Conditioning.
• Applications: Animal training, Token economies, Anxiety disorders.

Weeks 6-12: Specialized Topics

• Forensic Psychology: Intersection with law, Wrongful convictions, Risk assessment.
• Neuropsychology: Brain lobes and functions, Gyri and Sulci.
• Personality: Traits, Approaches, Heritability, Big 5.
• Psychopathology: Indicators of abnormality, Mental health disorders.
• Social Psychology: Social cognition, Attitudes, Social influence.
• Biopsychology: Brain anatomy, Nervous system, Hormones.

Essential Skills Developed

• Analyzing psychological research and evidence.
• Effective communication in multiple formats.
• Cultural competence in psychological applications.
• Ethical considerations and professional behavior in psychology.

Note: This summary captures key points and topics covered in "PSYCH1101 - Introduction to Psychology I," emphasizing both theoretical insights and practical applications across different fields within psychology.