PSY 411 - Advanced Topics in Psychological Science

A detailed examination of a current research area and/or methodological approach in psychological science, with an emphasis on primary literature. Not all topics are offered every year.

Advances in Identity Research
This course provides an in-depth examination of the scientific study of identity from developmental and social psychological perspectives. Students will explore the history, foundational and contemporary theories, research methods, and recent advancements in the field through the analysis of academic literature. In addition to reading and discussing recent research and theoretical review papers, students will conduct original empirical identity research and receive training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Eating Disorders
This course presents an in-depth examination of eating disorders. Our investigation will span topics such as the neurobiological basis of eating behaviors and disordered eating; historical trends in the prevalence of eating pathology; cognitive, affective, and sociocultural factors influencing eating disorders; and the treatment of eating disorders. We will consider the current understandings of the causes, correlates, outcomes, and treatment of eating pathology, rooted in the empirical literature.

Neural Basis of Decision-Making
Decision-making is a fundamental cognitive process that shapes behavior, from everyday choices to complex problem-solving. This course examines the neural mechanisms underlying decision-making, integrating insights from cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, psychology, and adjacent fields. We will explore how brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and amygdala contribute to evaluating options, weighing risks and rewards, and adapting to uncertainty. Furthermore, we will discuss how animal models can help us understand why we (sometimes) make bad decisions. Topics include the role of dopamine in reinforcement learning, the impact of emotion, motivation and bias on choices, animal models such as gambling, alcohol consumption, among others.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III, Distribution Group III-Data Collection and Analysis
Prerequisite(s):

Advances in Identity Research: PSY 234 , PSY 322 , PSY 361 , or PSY 362 , and junior or senior standing
Eating Disorders: PSY 319 , PSY 324 , or PSY 351
Neural Basis of Decision-Making: PSY 333 , PSY 334 , PSY 373 , or PSY 381

Instructional Method: Lecture-conference-laboratory
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 2 times for credit
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data, or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.
Collect, interpret, and analyze data.