PSY 352 Multicultural Psychology

3 hours 

This course will investigate the influence of sociocultural factors, such as race, ethnicity, gender and class, on human thought and behavior. Students will explore different theoretical ways in which psychology addresses the tensions between cultural differences and universals, with a focus on how cultures construct human thought, behavior and identity. Building on this theoretical foundation, the course examines varying perspectives on psychological constructs, such as gender, sexuality, parenting and identity, as crucial components of self-hood. Students will be challenged to think critically about universal assumptions in psychology and to become aware of cultural influences on individuals. The application of multicultural principles to psychological practice and research will be integrated throughout the course.