Psychology 250

PSYC 250: Psychology of Diversity

Prerequisites: PSYC 121

Credit Hours: (3)

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 or 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.

Note(s): Students cannot receive credit for both PSYC 350 and PSYC 250. This course may be
used to meet requirements for the minor in Womens Studies.

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