Behavioral Neuroendocrinology (Fall)

In many species, hormones influence behavior by acting on the nervous system and by interacting with the environment. To what degree do these principles apply to humans? We will study basic principles of endocrinology and the nervous system, and explore how hormones influence both human and nonhuman species. Competing social/environmental theories also will be addressed, but are not a major course emphasis. Topics may include: hormonal involvement in behavioral sex differences (in cognition, aggression, parental behavior), reproduction, mood, stress, neural structure and function, and sexual orientation. Students should know fundamental structures and operation of the nervous system. (PSYC 0301; open to junior and senior psychology and neuroscience majors only) 3 hrs. sem.