One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, part 1

Ok, now that you have seen the first "group session" run by Nurse Ratched, comment on the treatment methodology. Based on what you know about on a number of personality theories, does it make sense to use a group setting to help people confront and overcome their problems? What good, if any, could come from Nurse Ratched's "treatment?"

Due Tuesday, December 13.

Beyond Freedom & Dignity

Time to add to our discussion concerning Skinner's thoughts. Many psychologists believe Skinner steals not only our freedom but also our humanity. In their view, Skinner proposes a dystopian world of automatons reacting only to external stimuli, while losing the wonder and joy of life. On the other hand, Skinner's proponents claim he offers a fresh perspective and an alternative to the misery we already experience in this world.

Consider his views in Beyond Freedom and Dignity and the views of his detractors and discuss your thoughts on his vision.

Please post a response by Friday, December 2.

The Humanists

Do the humanists make more sense than the Freudians? Explain. Which humanist theorist has the best take on human personality?

Please post a response by Monday, November 14.

The Neo-Freudians

Okay, now that we have covered all the Neo-Freudians - Jung, Erikson, Adler, and Horney, which of them stands out as the one with the best theory of personality? Consider each main idea and evaluate each for its value to psychology.

Please post by Saturday, November 5.

Freud or Fraud

Time to take a position! I have taken a lot of time explaining Freudian theory in much detail. Was that time well-spent? Based on the text and the articles you read, tell us if you think Freud was a "fraud" and I have misused the limited time we have in Psychology. Or do you think Freudian theory is still relevant today and should continue to be an important part of any Psychology curriculum. What parts of his theory deserve time and what parts should be completely scrapped? Cam said Freud should be taken out of Psychology and placed in an Anthropology course. Do you agree? Explain.

So there is a lot of stuff to discuss. You may go in any or all directions in your response.

Please post by Tuesday, October 18.

Freud, part 2

Give us an example of one instance in which you or someone you know (make up a name to protect the innocent or guilty) used an ego defense mechanism. Be sure to identify the defense mechanism used. Then tell us if you believe ego defense mechanisms are real and a natural way to deal with difficult psychological conditions. Be sure to explain why or why not.

Due by Friday, October 7.

Freud, part 1

Read p. 453-458 in your text on Freud.

Now that you have been introduced to some of Sigmund Freud's theory, tell me what part of his structure of the personality makes sense to you. Also if something sounds ridiculous, comment on it, too. Explain why it makes sense or why it does not.

Please post by Thursday, October 6