Stress & Coping: Across the Lifespan

The ways we respond to stress can affect our physical and psychological well-being. In this course we will assess the strengths and weaknesses of the different conceptual models of coping. In addition, we will examine the validity and reliability of a variety of methods utilized to assess coping responses. We will investigate whether differences in gender or developmental stage account for individual differences in responses and whether coping mediates the association between exposure to stress and psychopathology. Students will be evaluated on the basis of in-class participation, written assignments, and a research project. (Open to junior and senior psychology majors only,) 3 hrs. sem.