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Apr 02, 2026
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PSY 412 - Clinical Seminar in Empirical View of Human Nature
Semester Hours: 3
While evolutionary theory has had a long-standing impact upon the natural sciences, the implications of this theory have only recently impacted the subfields of psychology (e.g., cognitive neuroscience, learning theory, social psychology, perception). Despite the relatively recent influence, the impact of evolutionary theory on these subfields has been enormous. However, one of the largest areas within the field, clinical psychology, is only in its infancy in applying evolutionary theory as a framework. The goal of this course is to discuss how one can use modern evolutionary thinking to increase our understanding of the evolved nature of the human mind and how this conception influences the broad field of clinical psychology (i.e., our view of human nature, theory of human suffering and psychopathology, and strategies that can be used to improve one’s life). With an eye on synthesizing the two main ingredients—evolutionary psychology and clinical psychology— accompanied by findings from cognitive neuroscience, anthropology and a framework of existential philosophy—this course will address the following areas. 1) What is the nature of the human mind—that is, what is human nature? 2) What role do these EPAs play in human suffering in general and in the development and expression of psychopathology (e.g., anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, addictions, relationship distress, general life dissatisfaction)? 3) With an increased understanding of the role of evolutionary theory in how we define human nature and the underpinnings of human suffering: What implications does this have for making changes to improve one’s life? And perhaps most relevant to therapists: what implications does this have with regard to psychotherapeutic treatments (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, emotion-focused therapies)?
View Course Offering(s):
Summer Session I 2026
Summer Session II 2026
Summer Session III 2026
Fall 2026
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