PSY 250: Social Psychology

Discover the factors influencing the risk of major depression and bipolar disorder. Unpack the roles of genetic predisposition, family history, and life events in mental health. Learn why a biological family connection stands out as the most significant risk factor.

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.

Explore Edward Thorndike's foundational Law of Effect, illustrating how favorable consequences influence behavior repetition. Contrast this principle with other behavioral concepts like operant conditioning and shaping for a complete understanding.

Explore persuasion techniques such as Door-in-the-face, Foot-in-the-door, That's-not-all, and Not-so-free sample, commonly used in psychology, marketing, and sales, where only Foot-in-the-door initiates with a small request to enhance compliance with a larger one later based on the consistency principle.

Discover the crucial role of therapists in addressing mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. Explore various therapy options and understand why cognitive, group, rational-emotive, and client-centered therapies may not be the right fit for everyone. Uncover the essence of behavior therapy, where therapists collaborate with patients to recognize and transform troublesome behaviors for a healthier future.

Explore Hans Selye's groundbreaking General Adaptation Syndrome, detailing the body's three-stage response to stress. Learn about the physiological reactions in each stage, from alarm to exhaustion. Grasp the importance of managing chronic stress and its potential health implications.