Reading, p. 572-577

Ok, now we are onto the good stuff in Psychology, the real reason why you are all here - to find what mental disorder we all (me excluded!) have.

But seriously, psychological disorders are no laughing matter, particularly since a 1994 survey found that almost 50% of the population have experienced symptoms of mental illness at some point in their lives. A more recent study showed that almost 20% of young adults age 18-24 have a serious personality disorder (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28004005/) and another 30% have other psychological issues! Oftentimes these issues lead to destructive behavior (think the Virginia Tech tragedy) and perhaps even suicide.

After thinking about these statistics and the definition of mental disorder (p. 575), explain whether you believe these numbers are real. Are these statistics over-inflated because of a definition that is too broad? Is mental illness this serious of an issue in our society?

I know this is a lot to think about but I believe all of you will have some profound comments. Please post blog by Monday, December 8. For those thinking about extra credit - come back to make multiple comments and get your parents involved in this issue.

Also check out the following:http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28001610
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28002991/

Beyond Freedom & Dignity

Did you enjoy reading Skinner's Beyond Freedom and Dignity? If you did, you are a better person than I am!

Anyways, as difficult as the reading was, Skinner has some provocative thoughts on the nature of the human condition. The implications of his theory are also significant because they would offer a solution to the many problems which have plagued humans from the beginning of time.

Consider the idea of human freedom (autonomous man) and tell us if you agree with Skinner that no man is truly free. Then depending on whether you agree or not, evaluate whether humans can ever create the "perfect society" implied in Skinner's Beyond Freedom and Dignity.

Spend some time pondering these issues and considering the questions in the excerpt before writing. Blog is due on Monday, November 24.

Operant Conditioning Reading, p. 205-220

After reading about Operant Conditioning, do the following two things:

1. Ask B.F. Skinner 2 questions concerning Operant Conditioning. They can be philosophical in nature or they can be for clarification of something you do not understand.

2. Briefly explain the essential difference between operant and classical conditioning.

Blog is due by Thursday, November 20.

Something random

Just say whatever comes to your mind! You do not need to respond if you do not want to respond. This is really just a chance for someone in the class to respond before Natalie.

Reading, p 186-191 - Classical Conditioning

This section tells us the dynamics involved in Pavlov's accidental discovery of Classical Conditioning. Do you believe an understanding of this phenomena gives us insight into certain human behaviors? Which ones? Predict how this concept can be applied to humans.

Post blog by Friday, November 14.

Reading, p 469-473

Now that you have a pretty good understanding of the psychoanalytic approach to personality and have read about the humanistic perspective, briefly explain which would give a better understanding of human personality. Give specific details to support your conclusion.

Post by November 3.

Extra Credit 1

Read "A Healthy Obsession" and post your reaction to the article. Do you believe that we can overcome harmful addictions by replacing them with healthy ones?

Please post by October 23.