PSYC 250
Psychology of Diversity
Catalog Entry
PSYCHOLOGY 250. Psychology of Diversity
Three hours lecture (3).
Prerequisites: PSYC 121.
This course provides an overview of the psychology of race/ethnicity, sex/gender, and minority groups in a multicultural context. This course will cover issues of psychological development, mental health, sex/gender, and power inequity within minority groups residing in North America, including but not limited to: African- Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, and Asian Pacific Islanders. It provides a means of critical analysis and integration of diverse perspectives that exist within contemporary psychology. Major emphasis will be on developing an understanding of the variation within and between racial/ethnic groups; psychological issues relevant to women and their minority or out-group status; psychological issues of regarding gender within minority groups; and the psychological processes that underlie the perpetuation of group conflict and inequity and the multicultural approach to confronting these issues.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
This course will provide an opportunity to study the diversity that exists within and between groups in North America and the effects of living within a multicultural context. The following topics and groups will be considered:
1. Introduction to Multiculturalism
2. Psychology of Prejudice
3. Theories
4. Mental Health Issues
5. Psychological Development
6. Women
7. African-Americans
8. Asian/Pacific Islander-Americans
9. Hispanic/Latino Americans
10. American Indians
11. Gays and Lesbians
12. Jewish-Americans
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
A lecture-discussion format will be used, supplemented by multi-media presentations, guest-speakers, and/or experiential learning activities.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Students will beencouraged to develop a sensitivity to and appreciation for other groups, expected to develop a knowledge of the unique challenges and contributions of various minority groups, and expected to develop an understanding of the complexity resulting from multiple groups living together within a specific context.
Assessment Measures
Graded assignments may include in-class tests, a final examination, quizzes, the assignment and presentation of exercises and projects, and class participation.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
