The course presents a comprehensive in-depth study of the nature of personality, including how it is defined, measured, conceptualized, and influenced by biological and environmental factors. The major theories of personality that are prominent and important today in the field of psychology are considered individually in detail and comparatively. This includes theories from psychodynamic, developmental, humanistic, behavioral, cognitive, biological and cross-cultural perspectives.
The overall aim is to introduce students to the fundamental questions, ideas and approaches in the study of personality. To this end, the course also emphasizes an understanding of the research methods and findings in the field, focusing on research from many different cultures around the world.
RATIONALE
This is an elective course that counts towards the requirements in the psychology minor, major and combined major.
COURSE GOALS
The goals of this course are as follows:
1. Introduce students to the major theoretical models of personality;
2. Introduce students to scientific research and peer-reviewed publications;
3. Assist students in synthesizing information from diverse subject areas and methods of study within the field of personality development;
4. Help students understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social and organizational issues; and
5. Encourage students to respect the complexity of sociocultural diversity, act ethically, and reflect the values that are the foundation of psychology as a discipline.
SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the major theoretical models of personality;
2. Access, read, and critically evaluate peer review articles in psychology journals;
3. Demonstrate an ability to integrate knowledge and present it effectively through written papers;
4. Exhibit listening, questioning, and verbal expression skills in group discussions;
5. Develop critical thinking and analytical skills;
- Teacher: Antonio Bova