Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 SGPP Catalog and Handbook 
    
2017-2018 SGPP Catalog and Handbook [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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PSY335 Evolutionary Psychology (3 cr.)


This course provides an introduction to evolutionary psychology: the scientific study of human nature focusing on the psychological adaptations that evolved to solve ancestral challenges to survival and reproduction.  Topics covered include principles of natural selection, sexual selection, human universals, key concepts from evolutionary biology, kin relationships, altruism and cooperation, cultural transmission, fear, aggression, conflict, and social dominance.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

  1. Apply the concept of natural selection as a mechanism of influence on relevant human behaviors.
  2. Articulate the relationship between physical structures (the brain) and psychological functions.
  3. Evaluate current research methodology and current research stemming from an evolutionary perspective.
  4. Analyze how modern human behaviors have been influenced by evolved mechanisms.
  5. Analyze how modern human health have been influenced by evolved mechanisms.
  6. Present an integrated view of psychology by applying an evolutionary orientation across psychological concepts and theories.



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