LA-101 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY
3 credits
In this general introduction to the field of psychology, emphasis is placed
on the basic principles of human behavior as presented in the theories of learning, motivation, emotion, thinking, intelligence, maturation, perception and ego-defensive behavior. Attention is also given to the various schools
of psychology, general aspects of clinical methods,
tests and measurements and findings of research.
LA-102 INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY
3 credits
Sociology is the study of human behavior in the context of group situations and relation-ships. This course investigates the nature and structure
of social groups and studies how certain social institutions function.
LA-103 INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE
3 credits
The organization and functioning of political institutions in the United States
on the national, state and local levels are studied.
Special emphasis is placed on the arrange-ments and
procedures developed to effect the principle of separation
of powers, to insure popular control of governments and to formulate public policy. The organization and functioning of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government are given major
consideration.
LA-104 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
3 credits
This course examines the behavior of individuals at different ages from the
prenatal period until adolescence. Topics include: caretaker-child
relationship, unusual parenting, maternal deprivation and the effect of environment. Developmental, psychoanalytic and cognitive theories are discussed. PREREQUISITE:
LA-101
LA-105 MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY
3 credits
This course examines the family as an institution: its roles, authority patterns, and functions. Topics studied include the comparison of various family
systems, alternate marriage styles, variations in the
family according to class, religion, sexual orientation, ethnic background, mate selection, and marital adjustment. PREREQUISITES: LA-101 or LA-102
LA-106 SEX AND GENDER
3 credits
This advanced social science course will explore how sex, gender roles, and
the expressions of masculinity and femininity are built
into the social structures of American life and various cultures around the world. Analysis of prejudice and discrimination (inequality and stereotyping) as they exist in the social institutions of
family, religion, economics, education, and political arenas will be addressed, as well as ideas for appropriate change for the future. PREREQUISITE: LA-101 or LA-102
LA-107 INTRODUCTION TO CIVIL RIGHTS LAW
3 credits
The United States was founded on the principle that the protection of individual
rights is paramount. Despite constitutional protections
of individual liberties, there have been many violations
of these fundamental concepts. This course will examine
the evolution of the law regarding discrimination. Particular emphasis will be placed on race discrimination, sex discrimination,
as well as other relevant areas. This course has rigorous reading and class participation requirements.
LA-108 PSYCHOLOGY OF ABNORMAL BEHAVIOR
3 credits
This course is designed to give students the background to recognize certain types of abnormal behavior and to understand
the development, maintenance and effects of the behavior.
The major areas covered include anxiety and stress,
dissociative and somato-form disorders, personality and impulse control disorders, psychoactive substance use disorders, sexual disorders, schizophrenia and suicide. PREREQUISITE: LA-101
