PSYC 3100: Special Topics in Psychology

Uncover the philosophical origins of nerve pathways and reflexes. Discover how René Descartes shaped our understanding of the body's automatic responses. Differentiate his contributions from other famous thinkers.

Discover the fascinating history of psychology's emergence as a science in this video. Explore the contributions of pioneers like Sigmund Freud, John B. Watson, Wilhelm Wundt, G. Stanley Hall, and William James, and learn how Wilhelm Wundt established the world's first psychology laboratory in 1879.

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 the fascinating history of psychology, from its ancient roots in Greek, Egyptian, and Chinese thought to modern neuroscience. Join us on a journey through the groundbreaking theories and experiments of pioneers like Freud, Jung, Watson, and Maslow. Discover how psychology has evolved into a diverse field that continues to unravel the complexities of the human mind and behavior.

This video explores how sensory receptors neurotransmitters and various brain structures work together to detect and react to pain all within a fraction of a second. Dive deep into the role of the sensory cortex spinal cord thalamus amygdala and endocrine system in our immediate and automatic response to potential harm.

Uncover the role of teratogens in fetal development with a focus on alcohol's impact. Understand the critical function of the placenta and how certain substances can bypass this protective barrier, potentially harming the fetus. Grasp the risks and implications of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.