Biopsychology

Introduction

The purpose of this course is to explore psychological topics from the perspective of a biopsychologist/neuropsychologist, which involves an understanding of how biology contributes to cognition, emotion, learning, social and other behavioral events. The course involves an extensive review of neurology and the functional working of the human nervous system. This course is designed to meet two specific curriculum needs. It is a combination of the material contained under the quarter system in CPS 8240- Advanced Developmental III-Neuropsychological Development and under the semester system CPS 9350- Biopsychology and Medication. Course content will involve information and research findings about a) sensory, motor and neurological development and b) biopsychology and medications associated with major clinical syndromes, such as depression, schizophrenia, impulse control disorders (including attention deficit disorder), and anxiety disorders.

The seminar format will require that students prepare and read assigned text material before each class discussion. Reading assignments are extensive. Students will be expected to read, synthesize, summarize, analyze, and form conclusions/professional opinions that might underlie future practice.

The content knowledge from CPS 8540 is seen as a prerequisite.