Psychology

Psychology focuses on the history, advances in technology, and both internal and external influences that affect human mental development. The student will learn the various elements of human behavioral development that emphasize concepts such as "self-esteem" and "self-responsibility". The course is developed to be presented in thematic units using various learning experiences such as group interaction and community service. Skill development will include, but is not limited to, the interpretation and application of maps, graphs, charts, political cartoons, primary documents, and other social studies tools. The avenues for these concepts are developed through the social studies strands.
Psychology has five basic skills that are enhanced and perfected all year:

DESCRIBE the impact of people, places, and events on the development of the study of psychology.

a. Identify major contributors to the study of psychology.
b. Trace the development of psychological study from one of a theory to that of a science.
c. Describe the relationship of psychology to other sciences such as sociology and biology.

DESCRIBE the impact of science and technology on the study of psychology.
a. Analyze the methods of measuring the development of the human mind.
b. Identify the scientific and medical advances that have helped treat psychological disorders.

DESCRIBE the impact of various environmental factors on the development of the human mind.
a. Analyze the internal influences on human development (e.g., heredity).
b. Identify the impact of external influences on human development (e.g., media, school, family).

DESCRIBE the factors that help develop one’s attitude toward citizenship responsibility.
a. Discuss the effects of personality traits and disorders that impact on proper citizenship.
b. Discuss the role of psychologists in our society.

DESCRIBE the key elements of psychological study and personality development.

a. Analyze the behavioral stages of socialization and maturation.
b. Recognize the various methods of learning (e.g., cognitive, psychomotor).
c. Recognize the methods of measuring knowledge (e.g., IQ).
d. Explain the economic and emotional "costs" associated with various disorders (e.g., compulsion, obsession).
e. Discuss the influences of various drugs on the mind and body.
f. Compare the relationships of various emotions to their resolutions.

Psychology focuses on five units of study which include analysis of the human mind and influences on one's personality:

UNIT I: HISTORY OF PSYCHOLOGY

- Have students identify contributors to the study of psychology (e.g., Pavlov, Freud, etc.).
- Research and discuss the various methods of studying the human mind.

UNIT II: HUMAN MIND DEVELOPMENT

- Chart the different methods to measure the ability of the mind (e.g., Bloom’s Taxonomy, etc.).
- View a film on the stages of mental development.
- In groups, describe how each one plays a role in his/her family and neighborhood.

UNIT III: INTERNAL INFLUENCES ON MENTAL DEVELOPMENT

- Write and present a paper titled, "How Do I Feel?".
- Show a film and research the effects of drugs and alcohol on mental ability.
- Create a listing of biological and hereditary disorders affecting the mental state.
- Chart the various disorders that affect the mind (e.g., obsession and compulsion) and known treatments.

UNIT IV: EXTERNAL INFLUENCES ON MENTAL DEVELOPMENT

- Discuss the impact of "good" and "bad" educational goals on the development of mental ability.
- Research and describe the impact of television, newspaper, music, and financial status on the mental state.
- Create a video or multimedia presentation on how films affect mental development in young people.
- Research and debate the importance of volunteerism.
- Select a community service project to accomplish (e.g., visit to a nursing home, retirement center during a holiday season).

UNIT V: PSYCHOLOGY - TODAY AND TOMORROW

- Research and debate the role of a "psychologist" in the medical field.
- Invite guest speakers (e.g., psychologist, medical doctor, and hospital administrator, etc.), for a panel discussion on their roles.

Offered to 12th-graders only.

Also availiable in Advanced Placement.

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