Rowland Barrett, PhD

A broad survey of principles underlying the systematic study of behavior. Using examples from basic research and applied settings, a variety of perspectives are explored, including findings associated with the physiological, behavioral, cognitive, developmental and social approaches.

The nature of normative transitions across the life span. The course fosters an understanding of change from pre-conception through death. A study of the individual from both the developmental and experimental approaches allows for an understanding and appreciation of change across the lifespan. The domains of human development (physical, cognitive/intellectual, and social/emotional) are replicated for infancy/toddlerhood, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Topics that may be included are methodology in lifespan research, heredity and environment controversy, intelligence, language and communication, learning across the lifespan, as well as motor, cognitive, perceptual, personality, and social development.

This course includes a review of the diagnoses, etiology, and treatment of individuals on the autism spectrum. This elective is for upper level psychology majors and related majors with the permission of the instructor.