Page 222 - SYU Prospectus

Shue Yan University Prospectus 2021-22

research paradigms and empirical findings on specific topics in social psychology;
b) critically evaluate research studies in social psychology from the cognitive-motivational
perspective and the person-in-situation perspective; and
c) integrate different social psychological knowledge and apply them to understanding and
tackling daily life issues.

PSY 340 Advanced Developmental Psychology
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course aims to broaden students’ knowledge on developmental psychology as well
as train their ability to critique on existing research. A student-oriented seminar approach will
be adopted. Each seminar follows a “consolidate-broaden-apply” routine to ensure thorough
understanding of the selected developmental psychology topics. Through presentations and
class participation, students are encouraged to apply their knowledge to local, practical issues.

PSY 350 Criminal Psychology
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course aims to provide a theoretical understanding of the multidisciplinary study of
criminology and psychology. Student will be acquainted with the dynamics of crime and criminal
behaviour from multiple perspectives. In particular, the study of criminal acts will be highlighted
by the interactions among psychological, biological, developmental and social factors.
Students will be equipped with theoretical skills to explore the core areas of criminal
psychology. Real case examples, class activities and discussion will be provided to enhance
knowledge application in understanding the diversity of criminal behaviour.

PSY 360 Psychology of Relationships: Love, Intimacy, and Self-Regulation
1 Term; 3 Credits
Human beings develop various close relationships throughout their lifespan. These close
relationships are also critical antecedents and consequences of self-regulation. For instance,
romantic partners often have instrumental value in personal goal pursuit while self-regulatory
failures often cause relationship failures. The quality of close relationships is also the most
important source of psychological well-being. Many of the human sufferings are rooted in
problematic (or lack of) close relationships. This course aims to provide scientific analyses of
various aspects of close relationship (romantic relationship in particular) with a specific focus
on their interaction with self-regulation. The course will introduce classic theories and updated
findings on a number of controversial topics such as the role of self-control in relationship
outcomes, the instrumental value of romantic partners in personal goal pursuit and the effect
of romantic break-up on self-concept. The course will first provide an overview of relationship
science, its current status and significance. Then it will be dedicated to in-depth discussion of
specific topics by guiding students to critically review selected journal articles and book
chapters. Topics will be connected to their implications for building optimal relationships and
self-regulation. Students will also have opportunity to conduct mini-research projects under the
guidance of the instructor. Hopefully, this course can enable students to make sense of their

p. 218