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Adolescent Psychology

Course NumberPSY 225W
Lab Hours0
Lecture Hours45
Course DescriptionPrerequisite: PSY 211W with grade of “C” or better. Provides a comprehensive exploration of the physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development of adolescents, beginning at the onset of puberty and culminating with a transition into adulthood. Explores the significance of adolescence in the total life span. Analyzes the impact of heredity, environment, and culture on adolescents' development, as well as the impact adolescents have on others. Considers the developmental tasks and personal adjustment challenges associated with adolescence. (45-0)

Outcomes and Objectives

Describe the major historical and contemporary theories of adolescent development.
  1. Evaluate the major theories of social, emotional, cognitive, and moral development.
  2. Explain the interaction between the physical, social, and cognitive domains of development.
  3. Apply theories to educational and personal adjustment issues of adolescence.
  4. Explain how research methods are used in the scientific study of adolescents.

Analyze and explain the historical and current perspectives on adolescence.
  1. Compare/contrast the historical "storm and stress" perspective of adolescence with the contemporary perspective of adolescence as a period of healthy differentiation and autonomy.
  2. Interpret media and societal perceptions of, and influence on, adolescents.

Identify the social and institutional contexts of adolescent development.
  1. Describe and evaluate Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Theory.
  2. Evaluate the influence of var ious social contexts on adolscent behavior and experience (e.g. family, socioeconomic status, peer group, school, culture).
  3. Analyze cross-cultural comparisons of adolescents.

Identify and analyze the physical and sexual changes of adolescence.
  1. Describe physical changes associated with puberty and adolescence.
  2. Analyze the interrelationship between biological and psychological changes.

Identify the issues/challenges facing adolescents.
  1. Examine the pressures of adolescence (peer pressure, sexuality, drugs/alcohol, divorce, gender identity, values, identity development, intimacy formation, image/physical appearance, disabilities, career choice).
  2. Recognize how these pressures may contribute to healthy or atypical development.
  3. Analyze the psychological, emotional, and behavioral problems of adjustment that affect the adolescent period (such as depression, suicide, antisocial behavior, juvenile delinquency, stress, substance abuse, and eating disorders).
  4. Examine effective coping efforts.

Perform writing tasks to promote learning of concepts.
  1. Document attainment of skills learned.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of the subject.

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