Spring 2006

PSY 350 • Motivation

Course Description

There are two major objectives in this class. The first objective is to familiarize students with major perspectives presently used to explain causes of behavior. Mechanisms regulating behaviors as proposed by evolutionary theory (sociobiology), learning theory (reinforcement), physiological theories (hormonal and nutritional determinants of behavior), cognitive theories (information processing and decision-making) will be discussed to enable students to select among these approaches for explaining behavior. The second objective is to apply these various perspectives to understand problems of eating behavior and its disorders, alcohol use and abuse, depression, hardiness, liking and loving, helping, aggression. Whenever possible, various perspectives will be integrated to develop new insights for understanding human motivational behavior.

Grading Policy

Exams: 3, combination of multiple choice and short essay
Quizzes: 3
No comprehensive final exam.

Texts

Note packet available after first class day.

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