PSY 725: Advanced Personality Theories

Unpack the different psychological perspectives on motivation, from biological drives to socio-cultural influences. Understand how internal and external factors shape our desire and commitment. Explore the roles of conscious and unconscious elements in motivating behavior.

Discover the intricacies of our olfactory system and how it connects to emotions and memories. Learn how odorant molecules interact with receptors and influence brain regions. Grasp why certain smells can evoke powerful feelings or vivid recollections.

Explore the divisions of the nervous system and discover which one is responsible for the startle response. Learn about the roles of the parasympathetic, central, somatic, sympathetic, and autonomic systems in our body's functioning.

Discover the essential process of neural pruning in brain development, distinct from creating new connections, managing neural waste, or increasing brain weight. Uncover how this natural "clean-up" refines our neural network, making our brains more efficient in processing information. Explore the impact of neural pruning on cognitive growth and the interaction between genetics and environment in brain development.

Discover the significance of studying fraternal twins in genetic research. Understand the unique blend of shared environments and differing genetic codes. Grasp how their study enlightens the genetics vs environment debate.

Explore Lawrence Kohlberg's stages of moral development, tracing the progression from early childhood to adulthood. Understand the shifts from consequence-driven decisions to societal rule adherence, culminating in universal ethical principles. Discover how moral reasoning matures through life stages.