Psychology Department

Topics include research methodology, neuroscience, consciousness, sensation and perception, learning, memory, and cognition. Students have an opportunity to be involved with ongoing research in the department by participating in experiments during the course of the academic term. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 101 or PSYC 100. Three credits.

Topics include lifespan development, motivation and emotion, health, social psychology, personality, abnormal, clinical, and forensic psychology. Students have an opportunity to be involved with ongoing research in the department by participating in experiments during the course of the academic term. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 102, PSYC 100 or PSYC 155. Prerequisite: PSYC 101. Three credits.

Forensic Psychology refers broadly to all matters at the interface of psychology and law. This includes the production and application of psychological science and knowledge to legal issues. Possible topics include eyewitness testimony, jury selection, deception detection, criminal law, police stress, forensic risk assessment, criminal behaviour, and types of offenders (e.g., sexual offenders, psychopaths, murderers). Restricted to students in Applied Forensic Psychology programs. Prerequisite: PSYC 101, concurrent or completed. Three credits.

A survey of the major topics of psychology applicable to the health professions, with a focus on age-related changes from conception to adolescence. Special emphasis will be placed on using critical thinking to evaluate scientific research, biological psychology, physical, cognitive and social development, health, stress, and coping, and the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 155, PSYC 100, PSYC 102 or PSYC 354. Restricted to students in the B.Sc.Nursing program. Three credits.

The course provides a detailed description of the psychology of behaviour with consideration given to behaviours of both animals and humans. Topics will include major theories of learned behaviours, traditional and contemporary research methods and findings, and applications to everyday problems. There will be an emphasis on classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning approaches. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 211 or PSYC 210. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Lab component. Three credits.

Cognitive psychology involves the scientific study of the mind and mental processes. Cognition refers to the mental processes of perception, attention, memory, language, problem solving, reasoning, and decision making. It is part of cognitive science, an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the human mind. In this course, we start with the processes of perception and attention. We consider the role these mechanisms play in our conscious experience. We will then cover human memory in depth. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 221 or PSYC 220. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Lab component. Three credits.

Cognitive psychology involves the scientific study of the mind and mental processes (perception, attention, memory, language, problem solving, reasoning, and decision making). It is part of cognitive science, an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the human mind. In PSYC 222, we will look at applied memory (flashbulb memory, eyewitness memory, false memory), language, problem-solving, judgment, reasoning, and decision-making. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 222 or PSYC 220. Prerequisite: PSYC 221. Lab component. Three credits.

An introduction to the brain cells and chemicals that underlie behaviour, as well as how drugs impact the brain. Recommended for students considering graduate work in clinical psychology. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 231 or PSYC 230. Prerequisite: PSYC 101//102 or 100. Lab component. Three credits.

An introduction to systems neuroscience and how perceptions, cognition, and action are represented in the brain, as well as the brain basis of psychiatric disorders. Recommended for students considering graduate work in clinical psychology. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 232 or PSYC 230. Prerequisite: PSYC 231. Lab component. Three credits.

This course covers how real, imagined, or implied others affect thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Topics may include the self, aggression, altruism, conformity, social cognition, prejudice & stereotyping, interpersonal relationships, and attitudes & persuasion. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 255 or PSYC 250. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Three credits.

This course will introduce students to the professional skills that are essential for success in practicum placements, work settings; undergraduate, graduate and professional studies. These skills include effective communication (oral, written, listening); critical, analytical, and creative thinking; intercultural competency; inclusivity and diversity; problem solving and conflict resolution; leadership and teamwork; professional ethics and integrity; personal wellness; and career development. Students will have the opportunity to practice these skills in a 20- hour practicum placement*. Restricted to students in Applied Forensic Psychology programs. Prerequisites: PSYC 101, 102, 110. Three credits.
*Students in the Applied Forensic Psychology program complete practicum placements in each of the last three years of their program: 2nd (≥20 hours), 3rd year (≥40 hours) and 4th year (≥40 hours). Placements must be approved and are coordinated with the Practicum Coordinator. Placements typically are done in applied /clinical forensic settings (e.g., mental health clinics, community-based organizations, police agencies, correctional facilities, prisons, law offices) and under the supervision of professionals (e.g., registered clinical psychologists, social workers, community organization workers, police and parole officers). Preparing (training) to do a practicum placement is an essential first step. Practicum hours can be spread throughout the regular school year, completed during reading week, or in the summer. Students are encouraged to consider options and opportunities for doing a placement in their home communities.

The origins of human nature will be examined from a developmental perspective with a focus on perceptual, cognitive and social foundations of mind and behavior that emerge in infancy and early childhood. Includes a lab component where students will obtain hands on experience with empirical studies that examine basic psychological processes and their development. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 261, PSYC 260 or PSYC 354. Lab component. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Three credits.

The major developmental milestones of cognitive, social and emotional development in childhood will be examined, focusing on developmental contexts (family, peers, school, culture). Includes a lab component where students will obtain experience with empirical studies of cognitive, social, and emotional development in childhood. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 262, PSYC 260 or PSYC 354. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Lab component. Three credits.

An introduction to methods used to conduct psychological research. Topics include identifying research questions, theory development, experimental, correlational, and observational research designs, ethics, measurement, sampling, survey development, and APA style research proposals. Quantitative methods will be emphasized. Lab component. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 291 or PSYC 290. Prerequisite: PSYC 101/102 or 100. Three credits.

An introduction to the statistical methods used to conduct psychological research. Topics include descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, effect size, power, and inferential statistics including Z-test, t-tests, correlation and regression, basic analysis of variance, and non-parametric procedures such as chi-square. Students will learn to use statistical software. Lab component. It is highly recommended that students have a laptop that meets the standards set by StFX IT Services. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 292, PSYC 290, or STAT 101. Prerequisite: PSYC 291. Three credits.

The topic for 2024-2025 is Sensation and Perception. Sensation and perception is the study of the links between our detection of sensory information (e.g., visual, auditory, tactile) and our interpretation of that information (e.g., what it means to us). Our perception of sensory information can impact how we feel, what we think, and how we act. In this course, students will learn about the structure of each sensory modality and how sensory information gets transduced into neural signals. They will learn about factors that influence perception (e.g., attention, knowledge, expectation) of these sensory signals. Finally, we will discuss how information is integrated and processed across sensory modalities. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 298 and PSYC 225. Prerequisite: PSYC 101//102 or 100. Lab component. Three credits.

An examination of psychology’s evolution, including the theoretical issues that underlie past and present debates about the discipline’s subject matter and methodology. Approaches to historiography within the history of the sciences will also be discussed. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course provides an introduction to key issues in Health Psychology. In adopting a bio-psycho-social approach, the course will examine the ways in which biological, psychological, and social factors interact to affect health. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

Contrary to popular belief, the experience of pain is not necessarily linked to bodily injury or detection of intense energy. Pain can be caused by various factors, including tissue injury, visibility of wound or noxious stimulus, attentional state, expectation, mood, previous pain experience, conditioned responses, etc. This course provides a basic understanding of pain perception and of the physical and psychological means of modulating pain. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course explores contemporary perspectives and research on the self as it relates to social behaviour. The nature and function of the self and the ways in which the self is both influenced by and influences other people will be examined from a social-psychological perspective. Topics will include knowledge of the self, self-motivation, self-esteem, self-regulation, self-prediction, the self in the context of relationships with others, and the influence of culture on views of the self. Prerequisites: One of PSYC 240, 250, 255; a minimum of 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

Students observe/shadow psychologists and other clinical forensic staff in their work, receive relevant on-the-job training, and work with a trained staff member during their interactions with vulnerable populations. Students will be evaluated by the practicum supervisor at the end of the practicum. The minimum number of hours per practicum will be 40 hours. Students will be encouraged to explore options and opportunities for doing a placement in their home communities. Restricted to students in Applied Forensic Psychology programs. Prerequisite: PSYC 257. Three credits.

This is a lecture course in which applications of psychology to society will be considered. This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the tools of persuasion (e.g., consistency, reciprocity, liking, social proof, persuasive language, non-verbal cues), how to use these tools in an ethical manner, and apply them to solving everyday life and real-world problems. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course will review theories and research regarding gender in psychological development, social roles, and personality. Topics to be covered will include the history of research in gender; issues to consider in conducting gender research; gender role development and the socialization of gender; gender as a social variable in education and the workplace. Cross-listed as WMGS 343. Prerequisite: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course surveys basic neuropharmacology and the actions of psychoactive drugs used to treat psychological disorders. It covers basic principles of neuropharmacology, distribution and elimination of drugs, drug-receptor interactions, neuroanatomy, neurochemistry and neurophysiology. This course is designed to provide an introduction to the pharmacological treatment of psychological disorders and to provide a foundation for advanced study in behavioural neuroscience, neuropsychopharmacology and related areas. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level; PSYC 231/232 (230) recommended but not required. Three credits.

The focus of this course is on how culture influences human behaviour and mind. The evolution of culture is considered as we dissect the debate surrounding claims that culture exists outside of the human species. Contemporary research and theory in human development and socialization, self-identity and cultural constructs of collectivism and individualism, acculturation and multi-culturalism, building relationships with others, conceptions of health and healing, and the impact of culture on the basic psychological processes will be covered. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

Neuropsychology is the study of how damage to the brain causes changes in thoughts and behaviours. Cognitive changes associated with specific diseases/conditions will be the focus of the course (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, etc.). Examples of cognitive and behavioural symptoms will be presented via videos, audio recordings, and performance on neuropsychological tests. The assessment of cognitive processes will be introduced and relevant structural and functional neuroanatomy will be reviewed. Cross-listed as BIOL 374. Prerequisites: 6 credits PSYC at the 200 level; PSYC 231/232 (230) recommended but not required. Three credits.

This course examines the development of the individual from a cultural perspective. Development is considered to involve a process of co-construction of the individual and culture. The impact of cultural practices, traditions, and parental beliefs on the developing child are considered, along with the interplay between those cultural forces and the biological foundations that influence the course of development. Cognitive, social, emotional development will be studied, along with a consideration of applied issues that emerge from investigations of the impact of cultural environments on child development. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level, PSYC 260 recommended. Three credits.

This course deals with current perspectives and research on the various psychological disorders. Courses in learning, brain and behaviour, developmental psychology, and personality form a useful background for this course. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 376 or PSYC 370. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course provides a broad introduction to research and theory in human sexuality. It includes examination of fundamental topics such as the nature of human sexuality and contemporary issues. Specific topics include historical perspective, theories of sexuality, sex research, sexual anatomy, sexual variation, sexual response, gender, sexual dysfunction and sex therapy. Cross-listed as WMGS 378. Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

This course provides an introduction to the theory, research and practice of clinical psychology. It assumes an evidence-based approach to assessment and treatment of psychological disorders, and examination of relevant ethical, professional, and theoretical issues. This course will be of interest to students intending to pursue graduate or professional studies in mental health or human services (e.g., clinical psychology, social work, counselling, nursing, law, medicine, corrections). Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level and PSYC 370 or 376. Three credits.

This course refers broadly to the production and application of psychological knowledge to legal issues. This course covers the history and mandate of corrections; nature of offending, behaviour assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of different types of offenders. Field work and projects involving trips to prisons and other correctional facilities are a required component of this course and involve significant commitment of time beyond scheduled class time. At times, trips may conflict with other classes. Students are responsible for managing their schedule and workload to facilitate participation in this course without needing accommodations in other courses. Restricted to students in the applied forensic psychology programs. Prerequisites: PSYC 101, 102, 257, 357, 376, 379. Three credits.

Law A continuation of PSYC 381, this course covers the history of the relations between psychology and law; Canadian criminal law; basic concepts in criminal justice and the study of crime. The course may include attendance at provincial and Supreme Court sessions, organization of special events as well as hosting guest speakers from the criminal justice system. Students are responsible for managing their schedule and workload to facilitate participation in this course without needing accommodations in other courses. Restricted to students in the applied forensic psychology programs. Prerequisites: PSYC 101, 102, 257, 357, 376, 379. Three credits.

This course will provide an in-depth, scientifically based understanding of development in adolescence and emerging adulthood. Important changes in physical, cognitive, social/emotional development will be discussed, as well as psychosocial issues experienced by adolescents and young adults (e.g., identity, intimacy, risk behaviors) and the contexts in which these developmental tasks occur, including family, relationships, and culture. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 383 or PSYC 385(2022-2023). Prerequisites: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

The topic for 2024-2025 is Cognitive Neuroscience. Cognitive neuroscience is the study of the brain-based mechanisms of mental processes. In this course, students will consider the types of problems that can and cannot be solved with cognitive neuroscience; find and use open science tools relevant to cognitive neuroscience; read, understand, and communicate about cognitive neuroscience research articles; and describe what is known about the brain mechanisms of at least one mental process (e.g., memory, attention). Prerequisites: PSYC 221/222 (220) or 231/232 (230) or permission of instruct. Three credits.

387 Selected Topics
The topic for 2017-2018 is Aging Bodies/Aging Minds. This course will cover typical perceptual, mobility, and cognitive changes that occur in older adults, how these changes impact each other, and how they influence social and emotional development. The focus is on healthy aging. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 387 offered in 2017-2018 and PSYC 355. Prerequisite: 6 credits of PSYC at the 200 level. Three credits.

The purpose of this non-credit course is to assist students in carrying out their thesis or senior paper research, choosing a career, and gaining admission to graduate or professional school. Attendance at colloquia and guest lectures relevant to psychology is mandatory. Prerequisite: junior standing in an honours program in psychology.

An examination of intermediate and advanced statistical procedures for the psychology researcher, with emphasis on the use of statistical software packages. Lectures and lab sessions cover topics such as factorial analysis of variance; mixed designs; contrasts and comparisons; power; multiple regression and correlation; the MRC approach to factorial and mixed designs; and multivariate analysis. It is highly recommended that students have a laptop that meets the standards set by StFX IT Services. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 394 or STAT 331. Prerequisites: grades of 70 PSYC 290(291, 292). Lab component. Three credits.

This seminar will examine current topics in cognition. The precise topics covered will change from year to year, and may include attention, memory, decision-making, consciousness, pattern recognition and artificial intelligence. Required: Honours standing, or a minimum average of 70. Recommended: At least one of PSYC 220, 221, 222, 225, or relevant 300-level courses. If you would like to take this course, but do not have the recommended courses, please consult with the instructor and/or department chair. Three credits.

Contemporary issues in the field of behavioural neuroscience will be considered in this seminar course. The precise topics covered will change from year to year. Required: Honours standing, or a minimum average of 70. Recommended: At least one of PSYC 230, 231, 232, or relevant 300-level courses. If you would like to take this course, but do not have the recommended courses, please consult with the instructor and/or department chair. Cross-listed as BIOL 454. Three credits.

Topics in experimental social psychology will be examined in this seminar course. The precise topics covered will change from year to year and may include self-compassion, sexuality, and relationships. Required: Honours standing, or a minimum average of 70. Recommended: At least one of PSYC 240, 250, 255, 350, or 353. If you would like to take this course, but do not have the recommended courses, please consult with the instructor and/or department chair. Three credits.

A continuation of PSYC 257 and 357, this course continues to build upon clinical skills and professional development undertaken in the first 3 years of the AFP program. This senior practicum course is a culmination and application of 4 years of practical training and experience. AFP students are provided classroom-based skills training in evidence-based interviewing (clinical, investigative, forensic); risk assessment; introduction to psychometrics and intervention strategies, as well as mini-workshops (e.g., professional skills, mental health literacy, cognitive behavioural therapy) offered by practicing mental health and other professionals. Students will have the opportunity to practice these skills in a 40- hour practicum placement*. Credit will be granted for only one of PSYC 457 or PSYC 356. Restricted to students in applied forensic psychology programs. Prerequisites: PSYC 101, 102, 110, 257, 357. Three credits.

This seminar course will examine from an empirical standpoint specialized topics in developmental psychology with a focus on perceptual and cognitive development. Topics may include the development of intentionality, understanding self and others, language, and memory. Required: Honours standing, or a minimum average of 70. Recommended: At least one of PSYC 260, 261, 262, or 374. If you would like to take this course, but do not have the recommended courses, please consult with the instructor and/or department chair. Three credits.

Prerequisites: PSYC 394, completed or concurrent; honours standing in psychology. Six credits.

The purpose of this non-credit course is to assist students in carrying out thesis or senior paper research, choosing a career, and gaining admission to graduate or professional school. Students will present their thesis proposal orally in the fall term and their completed research in the spring. Attendance at colloquia and guest lectures relevant to psychology is mandatory. Prerequisite: senior standing in an honours program in psychology. No credit.

The topic for 2024-2025 is Advanced Topics in Health. Students will examine in detail current research on selected topics in health as relevant to psychology. Content will vary across instructors, which will allow course instructors to teach topics in health that fit within their area of expertise and/or in emerging topic areas within the field. The topic planned for the course offering in 2024-2025 is exploring the health benefits of nature. Required: Honours standing, or a minimum average of 70. Recommended: PSYC 211 or 313 . If you would like to take this course, but do not have the recommended courses, please consult with the instructor and/or department chair. Three credits.

These are reading or laboratory courses in which the student pursues an individual program of study under the direction of a faculty member. See section 3.5. Three credits each.