FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY

Course Description

This course focuses on psychological science of marital and familial relationships. In this course, students will develop understanding for the definition, functioning of family and types of families. The aim of this course is to provide students in-depth knowledge of psychological theories on marriage and family, the relationship/interaction of the family with its cultural and social context, research methods on marriage and family issues, the conditions that effect mental health of individuals and family. Also, an introductory information will be given to students about family therapies. Family based mental issues and interventions related with adult and child problems, (such as divorse, child rearing, premarital process, remarriage) will be covered during the course.

FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

1. 01 Classify (3) types of families
2. 02 Summarize (4) family relationships according to a theoretical framework
3. 03 Evaluate (5) research methods in family studies
4. 04 Develop (5) interventions for current psychological topics that focuses on family issues
5. 05 Define (2) family therapy approaches and demonstrate (4) intervention methods with examples

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Goldenberg, H. & Goldenberg, I. (2008). Family Therapy: An Overview. (7th Ed.). Thomson Brooks/Cole

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 Identify different types of families SOLO 2
2. L02 Describe key factors influencing the family SOLO 3
3. L03 Explain different models used in family therapy SOLO 4
4. L04 Compare the different perspectives on family therapy models SOLO 4
5. L05 Describe the differences in families and their structures SOLO 2
6. L06 Categorize families based on their level of functionality SOLO 4

Program Outcomes

1. P01 Demonstrate an understanding of the core subfields of psychology — including but not limited to clinical, developmental, cognitive, social, and biological/neuroscientific psychology — and their interconnections with other scientific disciplines, critically evaluating the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry in psychology.
2. P02 Apply scientific methods, research techniques, measurement and psychometric principles (e.g., reliability, validity, scale development/adaptation), and quantitative/statistical reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena, recognizing methodological strengths, limitations, common reasoning fallacies, and the flaws of pseudoscience.
3. P03 Employ logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to analyze psychological concepts, evaluate theories (including their historical and philosophical development), synthesize information, and solve complex problems related to cognition and behavior.
4. P04 Integrate psychological theories and findings into practical settings (e.g., business, policy, clinical/counseling contexts, and daily life), applying foundational applied skills such as interviewing, observation, and case formulation, drawing meaningful conclusions to inform individual, organizational, and societal practices.
5. P05 Describe key ethical principles in psychological research and practice, critically applying these principles to dilemmas across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
6. P06 Recognize how individual differences (e.g., beliefs, values, backgrounds) impact behavior and relationships; use psychological knowledge to prevent or resolve intercultural and interpersonal conflicts and promote inclusive, respectful interactions.
7. P07 Exhibit self-regulation and self-awareness, demonstrating a commitment to psychological well-being, effective time management, constructive incorporation of feedback, and ongoing personal and professional development.
8. P08 Collaborate effectively in diverse teams, demonstrating responsibility, bias awareness, conflict resolution skills, and leadership in achieving collective goals.
9. P09 Communicate psychological knowledge clearly and appropriately for academic, professional, and public audiences using inclusive language, both in written and oral formats, and by accurately summarizing and presenting research findings.
10. P10 Use information and communication technologies (including AI and digital media) responsibly and effectively for research, collaboration, and the dissemination of psychological knowledge.
11. P11 Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability in response to evolving psychological knowledge and societal needs, engaging with global perspectives and demonstrating intercultural awareness.

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