An advanced study of the motivational and emotional processes that influence complex human thought and behavior. Concepts will be explored from historical, biological, environmental/learning, and psychological perspectives and applied to real-world situations.

This course focuses on major forms of atypical development in childhood and adolescence. These include disorders of behaviour and emotion, developmental and learning problems, and problems related to physical and mental health. The focus is on the child, not just the disorder, and the biological, psychological, developmental, socio-cultural, and spiritual influences.

The physical and psychological processes that take place during adolescence. Issues of identity formation, moral development, physical development, changes in family relationships and development of independence, sexuality in adolescence, a perspective on peer relationships and pressures, and anticipation of vocational preparation.

Skills for developing helping relationships from a Christian perspective. A problem-management approach to helping: helping theory and skills practice.

A psychological perspective on the experiences and problems humans encounter in daily living. Self-understanding in such areas as love, work, religion, sexuality, values and meaning, and interpersonal relationships as well as growth models and health.

Addresses the scientific study of positive psychology: what enables individuals and communities to thrive. Students will learn about and apply current research designs, empirical findings, evidence-based assessment tools, theories, and techniques in their exploration of this strength-based psychology.

A survey of selected theories of counselling and psychotherapy: their theoretical base, view of the nature of the person, key concepts, goals, roles of therapist and client, techniques, and overall effectiveness.

Issues and methods related to the conduct and analysis of psychological research. Internal and external validity, experimental and quasi-experimental designs, research ethics, and analysis of variance. Projects involve both library and empirical research components.

In the course, psychometric theory and principles of test development are examined. Other topics include: reliability, validity, item analysis, and use of tests in educational, industrial, and counselling settings.

Exploration of the biological, psychological, and cultural influences on gender differences and the implications of gender differences and roles for women and men in our society. Emphasis is on research and theory exploring differences and/or similarities and the origins of differences.