PSYC 2045 - Adulthood, Aging and Death

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture None Lab None
Course Description: This course presents an overview of the developmental tasks of adulthood, with particular reference to aging and death. It includes the study of the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of the aging process. Normal aspects of aging are contrasted with aging related to various diseases. Ethical, moral, and other contemporary issues associated with adulthood, aging, and death will be examined.
MnTC Goals
5 History/Social/Behavioral Science, 9 Ethical/Civic Responsibility

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1020  with a grade of C or higher OR ENGL 1021  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: PSYC 1020  

Major Content

1. Introduction to basic terms, theories, theorists, and concepts related to adult development
2. Scientific research methods and the ethical issues related to research in adult development
3. Genetic, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial influences on adult development
4. Philosophical and scientific models used for exploring the meaning(s) of life and death
5. Development and deterioration of motor and physical skills and capabilities throughout one’s life
6. Influences of sensation, perception, and learning on adult development
7. Personality and emotional development throughout one’s adult life
8. Cognitive and intellectual development throughout one’s adult life
9. Social and moral development throughout one’s adult life
10. Ethical and civic responsibility throughout one’s adult life
11. Ethical issues in adulthood, aging, and death
12. The dying process across cultures
13. Death and its many meanings

1. describe the scientific research methods used to study adult development, aging, death and dying.
2. define theoretical perspectives that relate to adult development.
3. compare and contrast the historical, and contemporary perspectives on adult development.
4. apply theoretical perspectives to current issues related to adult development.
5. analyze the effects of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that affect adult development
6. identify different contexts within which adult development occurs.
7. articulate the processes of death and dying.
8. analyze their ethical views concerning a variety of developmental problems.
9. apply ethical standards to contemporary adult issues.
10. analyze the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in relation to ethical and civic responsibility.

05. 03. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.

05. 04. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Theme Goals (MnTC Goals 7-10)
09. 01. Examine, articulate, and apply their own ethical views.

09. 03. Analyze and reflect on the ethical dimensions of legal, social, and scientific issues.

09. 05. Identify ways to exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

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