Overview
Critical and lively discussion of current and controversial issues in clinical, social, developmental, cognitive and biological psychology.
Do you want to meet with other students to discuss the latest controversies in psychology like the role of technology in mental health, the use of artificial intelligence in therapy, and the open science movement? PSYC 422 is a seminar paper designed to give postgraduate students the opportunity to engage in lively discussion of topics currently under debate in psychology. We have selected a range of issues and hot topics from across psychology - from clinical psychology to neuroscience. This 100% internally-assessed paper aims to develop skills related to critical evaluation of research and professional skills like scientific writing and oral presentation. The paper is highly recommended for people wishing to pursue a PhD in Psychology or planning to work in fields requiring critical analysis and scientific communication skills.
About this paper
| Paper title | Contemporary Issues in Psychology |
|---|---|
| Subject | Psychology |
| EFTS | 0.0833 |
| Points | 10 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $813.42 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Restriction
- PSYC 462
- Eligibility
Entry into Psychology 400-level papers normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers, and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.
- Contact
- More information link
View more information on the Department of Psychology's website
- Teaching staff
Lecturer: Professor Tamlin Conner
- Paper Structure
Students meet for two hours each week to discuss a contemporary issue in psychology selected from the major domains (social, developmental, clinical, cognitive, neuroscience, etc.). The issues will be framed as questions such as, "Can AI replace psychologists?" Students will be asked to read a target article and select their own article related to the question to discuss in small groups. You will also be asked to present your article to the wider class in a panel presentation once or twice during the term.
This paper requires engagement in the material and active in-class participation. Students will be trained in scientific writing and oral presentation skills and given feedback to improve their skills in these areas. The paper is 100% internally assessed. In addition to the readings for each class and in-class participation, students will be required to write one essay on a controversy in psychology, give a panel presentation on an article, and attend at least one Psychology department seminar and write a critical report.
Assessment:
- Class preparation and participation - 20%
- Essay - 40%
- Panel presentation - 20%
- Departmental seminar report - 20%
Example topics (will vary from year to year):
- Does social networking harm or help mental health?
- Can AI replace psychologists?
- Is early adversity always bad?
- Why is New Zealand top in youth suicide rates/domestic violence?
- Does the marshmallow test predict long-term outcomes?
- Are mental illness categories real?
- Do antidepressant medications work?
- Can words harm?
- Can stress be passed down epigenetically?
- Do trigger warnings harm or help mental health?
- Is climate anxiety real?
- What is the secret to a healthy marriage?
- Teaching Arrangements
Weekly seminar moderated by the instructor with small group discussion by participants.
The seminar is typically 120 minutes.
- Textbooks
Target readings will be posted to eReserve.
Recommended: American Psychological Association (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Research.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper will be able to:
- Understand the evidence and arguments surrounding important contemporary issues in psychology
- Critically evaluate research in psychology
- Engage in discussion about psychological research in small groups and in class
- Find relevant material from library databases
- Develop your scientific writing skills by producing well-organised, well-written answers to controversial questions
- Develop your oral presentation skills