Psychology: An Introduction

Overview
This introductory course in psychology provides you with an understanding of the key concepts and theories in the field of psychology. You will explore human behavior, cognition, emotions, mental health, and the biological basis of behavior. The course covers both historical and contemporary perspectives, equipping you with fundamental knowledge applicable to personal development and professional contexts.
Through examination of research methods, major psychological theories, and therapeutic approaches, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of what drives human behavior and how to support psychological well-being.
What You Will Learn
- Define psychology and explore the history, major schools of thought, and research methods in the discipline
- Understand the biological bases of behavior including brain structure, neurotransmitters, sensation, and perception
- Examine theories of learning including classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning, plus memory processes
- Explore psychological development across the lifespan and understand major personality theories
- Analyze psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia, and the role of nature and nurture
- Learn therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and drug treatments for mental health conditions
Course Curriculum
| Module | What you cover |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Psychology | Defining psychology: history, schools of thought, and major approaches. Research methods in psychology including experimental, observational, and survey techniques. Major figures in psychology including Freud, Skinner, Piaget, and others. |
| Biological Bases of Behavior | The structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Neurotransmitters and hormones and their role in behavior and emotions. Sensation and perception and how we interpret the world around us. |
| Learning and Memory | Theories of learning including classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning. Memory processes: encoding, storage, and retrieval. Memory disorders and techniques for improving memory. |
| Development and Personality | Psychological development across the lifespan from infancy through adulthood. Personality theories from Freud, Jung, and modern perspectives. The role of nature and nurture in shaping personality and behavior. |
| Psychological Disorders and Therapy | Overview of psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and others. Theories of mental illness and treatment approaches. Introduction to therapeutic techniques: cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and drug treatments. |