Upcoming Courses (Fall 2020)
Abnormal Psychology (PSY 231)
This course provides a broad introduction to the study of psychopathology, with an emphasis on the major forms of mental illness found in adults. The course begins with an overview of key themes in the study of mental illness, including approaches to defining abnormality, issues in the assessment and diagnosis of psychopathology, research methods in clinical psychology, and major theoretical approaches to mental illness and its treatment. The rest of the course will provide an overview of different mental disorders, including the clinical presentation, prevalence, and course of mental disorders, various theories of their etiology, and approaches to treatment.
Research Methods in Clinical & Positive Psychology (PSY 314)
This course will address methodological and statistical approaches to research in clinical and positive psychology. We will begin the class with an overview of the major methodological approaches to research in these subfields and discuss ethical considerations in conducting research on psychopathology and well-being. The rest of the course will review specific research designs and corresponding statistical tests. The course will integrate both theoretical and practical approaches to research methodology and statistical analysis. All students will design and conduct an independent empirical research project based on the readings and concepts discussed in class.
Additional Courses
Gender & Psychopathology (PSY 351) Next offered: Spring 2021
This course will address a range of topics related to the intersection of gender and psychopathology. We will begin the class by discussing the meaning of “gender” and the various mechanisms by which biological sex, gender identity, gender roles and sexual orientation may relate to the development, presentation and treatment of psychological disorders. We will also discuss historical and current controversies regarding the classification of psychological disorders related to gender identity. The rest of the course will address gender differences in specific psychological disorders and the biological, psychological and social mechanisms contributing to these differences.
Senior Capstone: Issues in Psychology (PSY 401) Next offered: Spring 2022
This course serves as a capstone for your experiences as a psychology major at Davidson. At the beginning of the course, we will discuss major theoretical approaches to studying psychology from both historical and contemporary perspectives. The second component of the course will explore the application of psychological science to the broader world. Finally, we will consider the ethical practice of psychology, in both research and applied contexts.
July Experience: In Pursuit of Happiness – The New Science of Positive Psychology Next offered: Summer 2021
What does it mean to be happy? Why do we value happiness? And how do we promote human flourishing and growth? In this course, we will use research from the field of Positive Psychology to explore these fundamental questions. We will consider ways in which well-being has been defined and measured, from ancient Greece through modern neuroscience. We will investigate the various benefits associated with positive emotions and experiences, ranging from resistance to illness to higher income. Along with our discussions of existing research, we will engage in experiential learning activities, exploring a wide range of “positive interventions” designed to promote happiness and well-being.
Courses at Previous Institutions
Williams College
Introduction to Psychology (Clinical Section, PSYC 101)
Psychological Disorders (PSYC 252)
Gender & Psychopathology (Empirical Lab Course, PSYC 353)
Senior Seminar in Psychology: Perspectives on Psychological Issues (PSYC 401)
University of Pennsylvania
Introduction to Psychology (PSYC 001)
Abnormal Psychology (PSYC 262)
Gender & Psychopathology (PSYC 462)
Critical Writing Seminar: Happiness (WRIT 077)
