PSYC 223 - Evolutionary Psychology

Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 55
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: This course is designed to introduce students to basic topics, concepts, and theories in the field of evolutionary psychology. We will discuss and analyze how human thought, emotion, behavior, and other psychological phenomenon have been formed and influenced through time and by evolutionary forces. Using an evolutionary psychology framework, we will apply concepts, within the field, to humans. Topics for this course include but are not limited to: - The Science of Evolutionary Psychology; - Sex and Mating; - Parenting and Kinship; - Cooperation; - Aggression/Conflict.

Prerequisite: PSYC& 100 with C or higher.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Accurately describe scientific discoveries that have influenced the field of evolutionary psychology.
Correctly identify major environmental influences on the evolution of behavior.
Accurately describe mating and parenting strategies by applying evolutionary theory.
Apply evolutionary psychology theory of cooperation to behavior of modern humans.
Apply evolutionary psychology theory of aggression/conflict to behavior of modern humans.
Articulate how the forces of evolution have impacted a variety of behaviors.
Analyze theoretical strengths and weaknesses within evolutionary psychology.

Course Contents

The Science of Evolutionary Psychology
Sex and Mating
Parenting and Kinship
Cooperation
Aggression/Conflict

Instructional Units: 5