B.A. Social Sciences

Comparative study of the cultural systems of American minority groups. Course examines significant social, familial, economic, institutional and cultural characteristics of American Indians, African-Americans, Mexican- Americans, Asian-Americans and other non-Western immigrants, women and other groups occupying minority status. The student studies significant values, beliefs, traditions and practices of these groups and considers current view points and issues related to these minority lifestyles.

Exploration of the meaning and variety of family life in the United States and other cultures. Classic and contemporary theories are combined with recent research findings to understand the changing definitions and contexts of family life. Emphasis is placed on the study of the family in a broader context, including the influence of neighborhoods, schools and religion, socioeconomic inequalities, gender roles, domestic abuse, divorce, and a life span approach to family life.

Provides an overview of the aging individual within the social context. The focus is on characteristics of today's older adults, psychological processes in late life, the social context in which older adults live and society's response to older adults. Topics include: demographics, stereotypes and attitudes, research methods, theories of development, sensing and responding to the environment, cognitive processes, mental disorders and treatment, death and dying, sexuality, intimate relationships, family relationships, care giving, employment and retirement, finances, Social Security, Medicare, living environments, ethnicity, gender, crimes against and by older adults, social programs and political power of the older cohort.

Explores the history, content, methods, and applications of social psychology as a scientific discipline. Topics include social psychological research methods, the importance of the person and the environment in predicting social behavior, errors in social judgments and decision making, attribution theories, obedience to authority, conformity, group processes, prejudice and discrimination, aggression, altruism, interpersonal attraction and sexuality, and conflict and peacemaking. The most current applications of social psychology to law, the health professions, the clinic, business, and politics are discussed, with special emphasis on connections to students' own lives. Prerequisite: one course in general or developmental psychology.

Overview of the research process designed for upper division students interested in reading and/or conducting research. Topics include: logic of scientific research, types of research, phases of a research study, designing experimental and correlational studies, sampling, quantitative and qualitative methods for collecting data, evaluating and writing research reports, and ethical issues. Prerequisite: junior class standing or permission of instructor.

How does social change come about? Why do some problems come to public attention while others do not? These questions are just as important as gaining knowledge about a particular set of social issues. Students in this course study the process by which social issues are constructed, gain attention and support, and become social movements. Analysis of controversial current issues is mirrored with learning to research a topic, apply sociological theory, formulate a position, and present that position in an accurate and effective manner in this course, which qualifies as a writing intensive course.