Fall 2007

PSY 309 • Personality

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to theories of personality including the traditional (psychoanalytic, learning, behaviorist-cognitive and humanistic) and the atraditional (feminist, ethopsychology and Eastern perspectives). The focus is in application of the theories to personality assessment, psychotherapy and prevention. Different research methods relating to the theories will be discussed. Students will be encouraged to apply personality concepts to problems of living in contemporary society. Case histories will be used to illustrate the assessment and treatment approaches of the different theories. The format of the course is primarily lecture with some visual and audio media presentations. Tests are a combination of multiple choice, matching and short answer essay questions. Assigned readings are in the moderate range.

Grading Policy

Exams: 2 mid-terms - 48% Final exam: 52% Exams consist of multiple choice, matching, and 2-3 short answer essays.

You must take 2 of the 3 exams, one of which must be the final. If you take all three, the lowest of the two midterm grades will be dropped automatically. No make-up exams will be given; you must arrive on time for the exams.

Texts

Required: Engler, B., Personality Theories Introduction. (5th ed.) 1999. Houghton Mifflin: New York. Suggested: Corey, G. Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy. (5th ed). 1996. Brooks/Cole: Pacific Globe, California.

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