Psychology of Couples in Fiction & Film

Catalog description

This course will explore the psychology of couples through the use of films and one classic American novel. It will examine the representation of couple relationships through a postmodern, social constructionist lens, deconstructing multiple discourses such as those of culture, gender, politics and patriarchy. The class will investigate what informs our understanding of normalcy, sexuality, heterosexism, monogamy, family and divorce. In addition, we will engage with ideas from psychotherapy in working clinically with couples. The class format will emphasize collaborative discussions, experiential exercises, and film viewing.