Department Chair: Dr. Jo Anne Meier Marquis, meierj@stthom.edu
Psychologists use the scientific method to study behavior and mental processes. The Psychology Department offers courses that develop students’ understanding of human nature and functioning, train students in the methods of scientific psychology, and prepare them to solve important human problems. The department provides:
A curriculum that integrates scientific, ethical and social justice perspectives on the nature of humans.
A program of undergraduate study in psychology that emphasizes empirical research methods, focuses on social justice issues, and prepares students for employment and graduate or professional training.
The field of sport psychology examines psychological variables that impact athletic participation, performance, and enjoyment in sport. This course explores theories and research across diverse areas of psychology, including personality, cognitive, social, and clinical, with an emphasis on using theories and research to educate athletes, coaches, parents, athletic trainers, and fitness professionals about the psychological aspects of sport.
A view of current theories of personality structure, development, and current research are presented through original manuscripts, empirical literature, and case conceptualizations. Theories presented in the course include Trait Structure, Behavioral Genetics, Psychoanalysis, Object Relations, Social Learning, Cognitive Behaviorism, Phenomenology, and Multicultural Perspectives.
This course will examine the social institution of sport, and its role in the various multicultural contexts within the United States and other societies. The course will examine topics such as the social organization of sport from play to professional, deviance and violence in sport, the influence of sport on different social groups, and the effects on socialization from participating in and spectating in sport. Sports reflect the values of society and culture, and we find all types of social issues in sports: incidents of racism, sexism, and violence in sports, as well as teamwork, leadership, and cooperation.
This course examines the influence of diversity and cultural differences on the delivery of counseling and consultation services. Students explore topics relating to diversity, multiculturalism, and cultural awareness (e.g., ethnicity, race, nationality, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, mental and physical characteristics, education, values, and socioeconomic status). Students will develop a better understanding of effective intervention strategies for addressing individual needs. Topics will include theories, effective multicultural counseling methods, ethical delivery of services, and culturally responsive assessments.
This course examines psychological principles that contribute to effective organizations, including aspects of organizational leadership, teamwork, productivity, employee health, personnel decisions, and diversity in the workplace. Students will gain an understanding of the history of the field of I/O Psychology and how the field has changed in the last few decades with regards to technology and diversity in the workplace, among other evolving aspects of work. This course will also cover the different approaches, theories, and methodology currently used in the field of I/O psychology.
This course emphasizes the role of developmental factors that contribute to the psychological, sociological, and biological changes that occur during adolescence. Developmental theories will be an integral part of the course, as well as the practical, real-world issues, research, and applications related to the adolescent period. Key ecosystems, including family, peers, schools, media, and employment, on adolescent development will be explored.