Introduction to Psychology (PSY100)

The University of Toronto's "Introduction to Psychology" (PSY100) is a foundational course designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology. This course explores the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, introducing students to the key concepts, theories, and research methods that form the basis of psychological science.

Students will embark on a journey through the diverse branches of psychology, including biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and clinical psychology. The course emphasizes the importance of empirical research and critical thinking, equipping students with the skills to evaluate psychological claims and understand the scientific underpinnings of human behavior.

Key topics covered in the course include:

1. Biological Bases of Behavior: Understanding the role of the brain, nervous system, and genetics in influencing behavior.

2. Sensation and Perception: Examining how we perceive and interpret sensory information from the world around us.

3. Learning and Memory: Investigating the processes of learning, memory formation, and retrieval.

4. Development Across the Lifespan: Exploring the psychological changes that occur from infancy to old age.

5. Cognition and Intelligence: Studying mental processes such as thinking, problem-solving, and intelligence.

6. Motivation and Emotion: Analyzing the driving forces behind human actions and the experience of emotions.

7. Personality: Assessing different theories of personality and methods of personality assessment.

8. Psychological Disorders: Identifying and understanding various psychological disorders and their treatments.

9. Social Psychology: Exploring how individuals are influenced by others and the social environment.

Through a combination of lectures, readings, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will gain a solid foundation in psychology that will prepare them for advanced courses in the discipline. The course also highlights the practical applications of psychological principles in everyday life, from improving personal well-being to addressing societal issues.

This introductory course is ideal for students who are curious about human behavior and mental processes, and it provides valuable insights for those pursuing careers in psychology, healthcare, education, business, and beyond.

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For more information and to enroll in "Introduction to Psychology (PSY100)," please visit the [University of Toronto course catalog](https://artsci.calendar.utoronto.ca/course/psy100y1).