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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2016-2017
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PY 202 Sleep and Dreams (1)
An investigation of the fundamental human need for sleep, including exploration of
proposed purposes for dreams. Topics to be considered include how sleep is scientifically
defined and measured, what happens when we do not sleep, current theories regarding the
need for sleep, common sleep disruptions and disorders, and the structure and utility of
dreams. All topics are examined on the individual, group, and societal levels.
Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 204 Statistics For Research (1)
A laboratory course designed to introduce students to experimental research design,
statistical theory and techniques, and computer data analysis. Laboratory required. Open
only to psychology majors.
PY 205 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (1)
An examination of forensic psychology, or the application of psychological principles to
legal matters. Topics include criminal behavior, victimization, criminal investigation
(e.g., criminal profiling, lie detection, eyewitness testimony), forensic assessment, and
jury selection and deliberation.
PY 206 Special Topics in Psychology (1)
An in-depth exploration of theory and research in a sub-disciplinary area of psychology.
Topics may vary.
PY 211 Social Psychology (1)
An introduction to concepts, theories, and methods of social psychology. Topics include
the self, person perception, persuasion, conformity, obedience, stereotypes and prejudice,
aggression, prosocial behavior, group processes, and attraction and relationships. (Also
listed as SO 211, this course may be counted for credit in either psychology or
sociology.) Prerequisite: PY 101, SO 101, or SO 102.
PY 213 Psychological Disorders (1)
A survey of psychopathology and abnormal behavior with an emphasis on the systems
and criteria of diagnosis. Theories on the development and treatment of disorders are also
discussed. Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 215 Sex, Gender, and Society (1)
A survey of theory and research on males and females; biological and cultural factors in
development and abilities; perception and treatment of the genders by society; and
current gender issues and their historical context. (Also listed as SO 215, this course may
be counted for credit in either psychology or sociology.) Prerequisites: PY 101, SO 101,
or SO 102; and at least sophomore standing. Spring.
PY 217 Drugs, Brain, and Behavior (1)
A study of licit and illicit drugs (focusing on drugs of abuse) examining their effects on
the brain and on behavior. Topics may also include addiction and treatment, history of