Demystifying Freud and the Discipline of Psychology

Catalog description

Regardless of discipline, an understanding of human thought and behavior is essential in navigating one's environment and work. Psychology, the science that can guide this understanding, is often misunderstood by the general public. Throughout the world, when psychology is mentioned, the name that often comes to mind is Sigmund Freud. Many of the misconceptions regarding psychology started with misinterpretations of Freud's work and concepts. Using Freud's most well-known concepts, this course will introduce students to what psychology is, and what it isn't - in hopes of illustrating what use psychological principles can be in a plethora of academic disciplines. In particular, students will learn how to apply these principles to modern day research settings with a specific focus on health and well-being research. Students will not only gain insight into their own academic and career paths, but into their own personality and health as well. Course work will consist of class attendance, weekly course readings and online discussions, one exam, and a final paper.