Psychological Science in the Public Interest

Teacher: Steven J. Gilbert

Office: Fitzelle 127A (Psychology Department Office)

Course meetings: Tue & Thu 4:00 - 5:15 PM, Fitzelle 110

How to reach me: Phone: 2557

Office Hours: Mon & Wed 2:00; Tue 10:00 & Thu 11:00

(Additional hours by appointment)

Required Textbooks:

There is no required text. A major source of information for us is the journal Psychological Science in the Public Interest, which is a supplement to the Association for Psychological Science journal Psychological Science. All issues of the journal are available on-line.

Supplemental Materials:

We will be looking at a host of other materials, including, Slife, Brent. (2006). Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Psychological Issues (14 th ed.). Guilford. CT: Dushkin.

College Catalog Description:

The course will explore the contributions of psychological research and theory to the study of contemporary social issues, as explicated in selected issues of the journal Psychological Science in the Public Interest. Issues will include: improving the probative value of eyewitness evidence; the psychology of confessions; improving child custody evaluations and placements; the effects of neurotoxicants, micronutrients, and social environments on children’s development; an economy of well-being beyond money; the influence of media violence on youth; early intervention and recovery from posttraumatic stress; and the effects of self-esteem on performance, happiness, and health.

Format:

The course will be conducted in a seminar format. Groups of students will become experts in particular areas, and inform their classmates in weekly presentations and in papers that amplify on those presentations. Other structures and procedures (e.g., a course blog, evaluation of student performance, assessment of the success of the class) will be determined by the class. Guest lecturers as well as helpful media events (e.g., videos) will be included.

Links:

Our Interest Groups (New, 09/09/2007)