The Psychology of Aversion

Catalog description

Explores what is aversive to us and why. In particular, the ways in which sensory preception (e.g., smell, taste, vision), cognition, culture, personal experience and neurobiology mediate our avoidance responses will be analyzed. The purpose of avoidance from an evolutionary perspective and how the emotion od disgust is uniquely human will be a theme throughout the course. Topics will range from neuropsychological disorders to our social behavior and morality. Additionally, why we are attracted to stimuli that "should" inspire avoidance (e.g., horror movies, roller coaster rides) will be examined. Students will acquire a broad knowledge of the psychology of aversion through course readings, discussions, projects and active participation. In addition to presentations and discussion, class time activities may include completing questionnaires, watching vidoes and assessing various sensory stimuli. Prerequisite: CPSY 0010 , CPSY 0020 , or NEUR 0010 .