Human Relations (College of Arts and Sciences)

Faculty

Dr. Debbie Van Camp, Assistant Professor of Psychology (program chair)
Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Christopher Bishop, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Roberta Goldberg, Professor of Sociology
Dr. Deborah Harris O’Brien, Associate Professor of Psychology
Dr. Konia Kollehlon, Associate Professor of Sociology
Dr. Roxana Moayedi, Professor of Sociology
Dr. Carlota Ocampo, Associate Professor of Psychology

Description

The Human Relations major offers students the opportunity to develop a scholarly perspective in the two major social science areas of psychology and sociology, as complementary ways of understanding human behavior and the social world. This interdisciplinary approach fosters greater intellectual sophistication by demonstrating how these disciplines, both separately and combined, interpret the world and endeavor to answer a wide range of questions concerning human behavior and group life.

The Human Relations major embodies many of the primary goals of the Trinity curriculum by focusing on issues of gender, diversity, social justice, ethics, public policy, and technology. The Human Relations program is committed to experiential and service learning outside the classroom by promoting internships and practica in students’ areas of interest. The program also offers interdisciplinary connections to other academic programs designed for the wider Trinity community. Students of Human Relations encounter numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills and are prepared to continue in graduate school or careers in areas of education, social work, counseling, public policy, the non-profit sector, psychology, sociology, management, and other fields which require social interaction and analysis.

The Human Relations program supports a major in the College of Arts and Sciences. A minor is not offered. CAS students who major in human relations may not minor in general psychology or sociology but may minor in forensic psychology or criminal justice.

Major Requirements

In addition to completing a set of required courses (24 credits), all Human Relations majors are required to complete one of four course clusters (18 credits): General, Counseling, Child & Family, or Adult Health. Each cluster is designed to give the student a degree of expertise within a given area of human relations.

Required Courses (24 credits)
All Human Relations majors must take ALL of the following courses:

PSYC 101 Introductory PsychologyIntroduces the student to the scientific study of the mind and behavior. All major sub-areas of psychology (social, developmental, clinical, physiological, motivation and emotion, sensation and perception) are explored, as well as the major theoretical perspectives (behavioral, cognitive, psychoanalytic, and humanistic). Formerly PSY 121 Introductory Psychology.
3 credits
General Education Curriculum: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
FLC Area V
Core: Area II
SOCY 100 Introduction to SociologyIntroduces students to the science of sociology and prepares students for upper-level social science course work. Formerly SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology.
3 credits
General Education Curriculum: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
FLC Area V
Core Area II: Understanding the Self and Society
MATH 110 Introduction to StatisticsPresents the basic principles of statistics with applications to the social sciences. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability theory, normal and binomial distributions, and central limit theorem, with an introduction to the use of statistical software. Formerly MAT 110 Introduction to Statistics.
3 credits
General Education: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
Prerequisites: MATH 108, MATH 109 or higher level mathematics course
HUMR 201 Special Topics in Human RelationsThis course is designed to provide students with a conceptual framework within which to examine some of the major human relations problems faced by society and to introduce students to the breadth and depth of the field of human relations. Emphasis is on the processes of communication, problem solving, decision making, conflict and change as they occur in individuals, interpersonal, group and intergroup relations. The course emphasizes key ideas of theorists who have contributed to the interdisciplinary field of human relations.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and SOCY 100

• HUMR 201 has both of these courses as pre-requisites:
  • PSYC 101 Introductory PsychologyIntroduces the student to the scientific study of the mind and behavior. All major sub-areas of psychology (social, developmental, clinical, physiological, motivation and emotion, sensation and perception) are explored, as well as the major theoretical perspectives (behavioral, cognitive, psychoanalytic, and humanistic). Formerly PSY 121 Introductory Psychology.
    3 credits
    General Education Curriculum: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
    FLC Area V
    Core: Area II
  • SOCY 100 Introduction to SociologyIntroduces students to the science of sociology and prepares students for upper-level social science course work. Formerly SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology.
    3 credits
    General Education Curriculum: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
    FLC Area V
    Core Area II: Understanding the Self and Society

HUMR 211 Introduction to Social WorkIntroduces the profession of social work and the wide range of factors that influence generalist social work practice. Surveys the historical development of pro-social policy and practices of the profession, with particular focus on issues of social justice. Methods, fields of practice, knowledge and skills fundamental to social work are presented throughout. Discussion will also include current issues confronting the profession, volunteer and para-professional experiences, and guest speakers. Formerly HRE 200.
3 credits orHUMR 212 Introduction to Counseling for the Helping ProfessionsExplores the role of counseling in the helping professions. Surveys history, philosophy and theories of counseling, including an overview of methods and techniques. Possible topics include introductions to individual, group, community, marriage, family, grief, substance abuse, academic, employee, and vocational counseling. Also considers the implications of current economic and social climates on the practice and efficacy of counseling in the helping professions.
3 credits
Prerequisite: PSYC 101 or SOCY 100 (both are recommended)
HUMR 311 Research Methods for Human RelationsIntroduces students to research methods utilized in human relations professions. Critical thinking, data analysis and synthesis are emphasized, along with understanding basic statistics. Students will learn to read, understand, and produce written research reports and will gain familiarity with SPSS, the statistical package for the social sciences.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101, SOCY 100, and MAT 110

• For HUMR 311, majors may substitute either of these courses:
  • PSYC 301 Experimental Psychology: Research MethodsIntroduces students to research methods in various areas of psychology through active involvement in field and laboratory research, data analysis and interpretation, and written presentation of results. Computer technologies are integrated throughout the course for literature reviews, experimental simulations, and statistical analysis of data. Formerly PSY 388 Experimental Psychology: Research Methods.
    4 credits
    Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and MATH 110; Junior status (56 completed credits); Psychology and Human Relations majors only
  • SOCY 311 Research Methods for Social ScientistsIntroduces the student to various research methods used in the social sciences. Topics include causal analysis survey, observational, and evaluating strategies; feminist methods; database management; and statistical data analysis (SPSS). Formerly SOC 342 Research Methods.
    3 credits
    Prerequisites: SOCY 100 and MATH 110

PSYC 490 PracticumProvides students with practical experience in the field of psychology. By arrangement with psychology faculty, practica may concentrate in areas such as developmental, clinical, experimental, and social psychology. Formerly PSY 500 Practicum.
3 credits
Prerequisites: Minimum of junior status (56 completed credits) as psychology or human relations major or SOCY 491 InternshipProvides students with two days a week work experience in a variety of settings, research, human services, and criminal justice. Formerly SOC 595 Internship.
3 credits
HUMR 499 Senior SeminarExplores contemporary sociological and psychological concepts through new research and theory in the disciplines as a capstone course for the major. Students will contribute to class discussion through written work and oral presentations. Formerly HRE 460.
3 credits
Prerequisites: Senior status AND MATH 110 AND several courses in both Sociology and Psychology, e.g. 3 or more courses in both Sociology and Psychology. In addition, Research Methods (SOCY 311, PSYC 301, or HUMR 311) must be taken prior to (recommended) or concurrently with this course.

Human Relations Cluster (18 credits)
All human relations majors choose ONE of the following clusters to complete.

General Cluster

ONE of the following courses:

SOCY 321 Inequality and SocietyExamines classical and contemporary theories of social stratification. Are we all created equal? Can we become equal? Particular emphasis is on the American class structure, its impact on social institutions, and the importance of gender and race as factors contributing to inequality in society. Formerly SOC 378 Inequality and Society.
3 credits
Prerequisites: SOCY 100
SOCY 421 Sociological TheoryInvestigates the origin and development of classical sociological theory and how it is used in contemporary sociology. Formerly SOC 486 Sociological Theory.
3 credits

ONE additional sociology course.

ONE of the following courses:

PSYC 211 Social PsychologyStudies the individual interacting in a social context. Theories of attitude formation and change, social perception, and small group behavior are examined, as well as current theories, research, and methodology. Formerly PSY 255 Social Psychology.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
PSYC 221 PsychopathologySurveys different perspectives on personality and behavior disorders. Emphasis is on theories of normal personality development and on the continuum between normality and abnormality, classification of abnormal behavior, and therapeutic methods of bringing about behavior change. Formerly PSY 258, PSY 259, and PSYC 221 - Personality and Psychopathology.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
PSYC 231 Child PsychologyReviews theories of development and contemporary research and how they relate to current social issues concerning children. The developmental period from conception through middle childhood is the focus, with topics including cognitive changes, language acquisition, sensory-motor, moral, and socioemotional development. Formerly PSY 257 Child Psychology.
3 credits
FLC Area V
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor

ONE additional psychology course.

TWO additional electives from human relations, psychology, and/or sociology.

Counseling Cluster

ONE of the following courses:

SOCY 261 Family and SocietyIntroduces students to the role of the family in the social structure. Examines the family in historical perspective, the institution of marriage, socialization, the importance of gender, and current issues in the modern family. Formerly SOC 261 Family and Society.
SOCY 323 Race and RacismTraces the history of race relations, prejudice, and racism within the United States. Special emphasis will be given to the relationship of racism and the changing economic, political, demographic, and educational structure of society. Examines the roots of prejudice, its expression, and its impact on individual, families, communities, and societal institutions. Addresses the critical role of social science theory and research in increasing understanding of race relations and racism, and suggests intervention strategies for improved relations. Formerly SOC 350 Race and Racism.
3 credits
FLC Area V

ONE of the following courses:

PSYC 221 PsychopathologySurveys different perspectives on personality and behavior disorders. Emphasis is on theories of normal personality development and on the continuum between normality and abnormality, classification of abnormal behavior, and therapeutic methods of bringing about behavior change. Formerly PSY 258, PSY 259, and PSYC 221 - Personality and Psychopathology.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
PSYC 325 Behavior Disorders in ChildrenStudies childhood psychological disorders within a framework of normal development. Emphases include etiology, diagnosis, treatment methods, current research, and case studies. Formerly PSY 358 Behavior Disorders in Children.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and PSYC 231 or permission of instructor

THREE of the following courses:

HUMR 350 Multicultural Social WorkPresents an overview of multicultural issues in social work. Emphasis is placed on the increasing need for cultural and ethnic diversity in social work practice with the changing U.S. population. Also discusses the politics of social work, with a focus on historical oppression and issues of social justice. Utilizes case studies of assessment, planning and intervention with diverse clients.
3 credits
Prerequisite: HUMR 211
HUMR 420 Group CounselingThis course is an analysis of the role and function of group procedures with special emphasis on the elements of group process and interaction. Attention is given to the relevant research in group procedures. Group procedures are dealt with both at the didactic and experiential levels. This course is designed for students who are planning to work in the mental health field.
Prerequisites: PSYC 101, HUMR 212, Junior Standing in PSYC or HUMR
Credits: 3
PSYC 385 Ethnic & Cross Cultural PsychologyExplores cultural components in theory and research in psychology. The interplay of individual, ethnic, and societal factors in psychosocial development will be emphasized.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101, SOC 100, and at least three additional credits in Psychology
SOCY 105 Social ProblemsExamines the political and economic organization of society and its impact on social problems. The goal of this course is to enable students to understand the social nature of social problems. Students focus on how social problems result from cultural and social arrangements. Critical scrutiny of polity and economy provides clues for the bias of society. Explains how political and economic processes affect what is currently being done about social problems and thus why so many social policies fail. Formerly SOC 200 Social Crisis and Social Policy.
3 credits
General Education Curriculum: Knowledge and Inquiry Area
FLC Area V
SOCY 321 Inequality and SocietyExamines classical and contemporary theories of social stratification. Are we all created equal? Can we become equal? Particular emphasis is on the American class structure, its impact on social institutions, and the importance of gender and race as factors contributing to inequality in society. Formerly SOC 378 Inequality and Society.
3 credits
Prerequisites: SOCY 100

ONE additional elective from human relations, psychology, and/or sociology.

Child & Family Cluster

BOTH of the follwing courses:

PSYC 231 Child PsychologyReviews theories of development and contemporary research and how they relate to current social issues concerning children. The developmental period from conception through middle childhood is the focus, with topics including cognitive changes, language acquisition, sensory-motor, moral, and socioemotional development. Formerly PSY 257 Child Psychology.
3 credits
FLC Area V
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
SOCY 261 Family and SocietyIntroduces students to the role of the family in the social structure. Examines the family in historical perspective, the institution of marriage, socialization, the importance of gender, and current issues in the modern family. Formerly SOC 261 Family and Society.

THREE of the following courses:

PSYC 233 Psychology of AdolescenceStudies the theories and current research in adolescent development. Topics include the psychological impact of puberty, cognitive development, personality development, and the interaction of the adolescent with peers, family, and others. Emphasis is given to the impact of culture, gender, and ethnicity on the adolescent's development. Formerly PSY 261 Psychology of Adolescence.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
PSYC 325 Behavior Disorders in ChildrenStudies childhood psychological disorders within a framework of normal development. Emphases include etiology, diagnosis, treatment methods, current research, and case studies. Formerly PSY 358 Behavior Disorders in Children.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and PSYC 231 or permission of instructor
PSYC 343 Drugs and Human BehaviorFocuses on the use and abuse of psychoactive drugs, including medications (anti-depressants, neuroleptics) as well as alcohol and illegal substances (narcotics, hallucinogens, stimulants, etc.). Creative class formats utilize video, exercises, discussion, and readings to examine the biological, behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial consequences of drug use and effective approaches to treatment. Formerly PSY 212 Drugs and Human Behavior.
3 credits
FLC Seminar II
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and BIOL 101 or BIOL 111 or BIOL 112
SOCY 201 Sociology of EducationStudies the United States education system from sociological perspectives. This course identifies the major problems with the United States educational system and discusses solutions. Formerly SOC 201 Sociology of Education.
3 credits
General Education Curriculum: Applications Area
FLC Area V
SOCY 361 The Black FamilyProvides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of Black families. The course covers four broad content areas: historical/theoretical approaches to the study of Black families; Black family patterns (including socioeconomic, demographic, and intergenerational patters); socialization within Black families; and advocacy for and gender relations within Black families. Formerly SOC 302 The Black Family.
3 credits

ONE additional elective from human relations, psychology, and/or sociology.

Adult Health Cluster

BOTH of the following courses:

PSYC 235 Psychology of AgingStudies human development from early adulthood to old age. Interaction of social, psychological, and physiological aspects of development are emphasized. The course is of special relevance to students planning careers to serve the growing population of senior citizens. Formerly PSY 231 Psychology of Aging.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
SOCY 261 Family and SocietyIntroduces students to the role of the family in the social structure. Examines the family in historical perspective, the institution of marriage, socialization, the importance of gender, and current issues in the modern family. Formerly SOC 261 Family and Society.

THREE of the following courses:

HUMR 301 Seminar: Perspectives on GenderApproaches the concept of gender from the standpoints of psychology and sociology. Specifically, the topics of socialization, language and communication, sexuality and the media, and work and the family will be addressed in an interdisciplinary fashion. Emphasis will be placed on synthesis and integration, while applying course material to real-world events. Note: This may count as a PSYC, SOCY, or HUMR course. Formerly HRE 301. 
3 credits
FLC Seminar II
Prerequisites PSYC 101 and SOCY 100
PSYC 221 PsychopathologySurveys different perspectives on personality and behavior disorders. Emphasis is on theories of normal personality development and on the continuum between normality and abnormality, classification of abnormal behavior, and therapeutic methods of bringing about behavior change. Formerly PSY 258, PSY 259, and PSYC 221 - Personality and Psychopathology.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor
PSYC 262 Psychology of WomenEmphasizes the experience of women and girls using theories and research about development across the lifespan. The course stresses the inter-relationships of biological, socio-cultural and psychological factors. Central issues explored in the course include: identity, interpersonal relationships, gender roles in various cultures, and women’s roles in the workplace.
Prerequisites: PSYC 101
Credits: 3
PSYC 341 Health PsychologyExplores the correlates of behavior and physical health. The course focuses on psychosocial, cultural, and environmental factors in disease and disease prevention. It takes an interdisciplinary approach to special topics in behavioral medicine, including AIDS, stress, hypertension and women's health. Formerly PSY 220 Health Psychology.
3 credits
Prerequisites: PSYC 101
PSYC 365 Seminar on Human SexualityExplores the biological, neuropsychological, social, and moral dimensions of human sexuality in order to examine the connection between our gendered embodiment and our person through the concept of human agency. Formerly WST 365 Seminar on Human Sexuality
3 credits
FLC Seminar II
General Education Requirements: Capstone Seminar
SOCY 241 Work and OccupationsStudies the world of work from a sociological perspective. This course traces the historical development of work in industrial society and examines the modern American workplace. Topics include occupational stratification, the relationship of work to the
SOCY 381 Understanding AIDS: Interdisciplinary SeminarProvides students with a multi-dimensional approach to understanding AIDS. The course examines AIDS as a social construct utilizing Writing Across the Curriculum and cooperative learning techniques to build an interdisciplinary knowledge of AIDS. Formerly INT 340 and SOC 340 Understanding AIDS: Interdisciplinary Seminar.
3 credits
Gen Ed V: Capstone Seminar

ONE additional elective from human relations, psychology, and/or sociology.

Program Policies

Advanced Placement:
Credits earned from AP examinations do not count toward the major.

CLEP Policy:
Students applying for credit from CLEP examination results should consult with the program faculty.

Grades in Major Courses:
Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 in courses counted to fulfill requirements for the major. Only courses in which the student has earned a C- or above can be accepted as fulfilling major requirements.

Pass/No Pass:
Courses fulfilling major requirements may not be taken pass/no pass.

Senior Assessment:
Students must earn a C- or above in the Senior Seminar, HUMR 499.

TELL Policy:
Students applying for credit in experiential learning should consult with the program faculty.

Transfer Credits:
Credits in courses equivalent to those required for the major from a similar institution may be accepted towards the major. Students majoring in human relations must take a minimum of two psychology and two sociology courses at Trinity in addition to HUMR 499.

Course Descriptions