UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, JAMAICA

FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND LIBERAL STUDIES

SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

COURSE NAME: INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

MODULE CODE: PSY1002

ACADEMIC YEAR: 2014/15

SEMESTER: 1

QUESTIONS FOR TUTORIAL PRESENTATIONS

PRESENTATION 1: Sept 15-20, 2014

Biological functions such as the actions of neurotransmitters and hormones impact the day-to-day behaviours
and activities of human beings. Differentiate between the functions of neurotransmitters and hormones as
messengers of the body’s two main communications systems, (nervous and endocrine) and explain how they
both impact specific behaviours. (50 Marks)

Your presentation (response) should include:

a. a definition of a neurotransmitter and a definition of a hormone (4 marks)

b. an explanation of two similarities and two differences in how neurotransmitters and hormones function
as messengers (10 marks)
c. an identification of any four neurotransmitters and explanation of how each contributes to a specific
behaviour (12 marks)
d. an identification of any four hormones and explanation of how each contributes to a specific behaviour
(12 marks)
e. an identification of two behavioural or psychological problems, one caused by a hormonal imbalance
and the other caused by a neurotransmitter imbalance, and one suggestion on how each may be treated
(12 marks)

PRESENTATION 2: SEPT. 22 – 27, 2014

You have been asked to make a presentation on adolescent development at a boy’s day function at an inner
city high school. In your presentation:

a) Describe two psychological changes that occur during adolescence. (10 Marks)
b) Adolescence is seen as a period of "storm and stress" for most teenagers. Explain what you understand
this to mean (include a discussion on identity formation and crisis, relationships with peers and
parents, self-esteem, depression, and violence). (20 Marks)
c) Briefly outline two practical methods adolescents can use to deal with the stress they may experience.
(10 Marks)

PRESENTATION 3: Sept 29 – Oct, 2024

Michael’s mother is convinced that he spends too much time with the neighbourhood children and that they
were the ones to influence his development of some behaviours (mannerisms and habits) that she finds both
distressful and undesirable for a nine year-old boy. You disagree and need to convince her that Michael’s
behaviour can be explained using a number of learning theories. In doing so, you need to:
 a) Differentiate between classical conditioning and social learning theory. (10 Marks)

b) Briefly explain the role of genetics and the environment in the acquisition of Michael’s behaviours
(and habits in particular). (10 Marks)

c) Explain two reasons why some psychologists think that punishment is ineffective and that parents
need to find better methods for disciplining their children. (10 Marks)

d) Outline four strategies that psychologists could use to help Michael adapt more desirable behaviours.
(20 Marks)

PRESENTATION 4: OCT. 27 – Nov 1, 2014

“Women are from Venus, men are from Mars.” This statement is often used to explain how men and women
experience emotions differently. But as students of psychology you feel the need to help others better
understand this issue. In doing so:
a) Explain whether or not men are less emotional than women. (10 Marks)
b) Citing examples (one male and one female), use Cannon-Bard’s and James-Lange’s theories to explain
how we experience emotions. (20 Marks)
c) Explain how one’s cultural background can influence the way we express our emotions. (10 Marks)
d) Discuss how voice quality and gestures can be used to convey or “read” one’s emotion. (10 Marks)

PRESENTATION 5: NOV. 3- 8, 2014

The psychodynamic perspective on personality development was put forward by noted psychologists
including Sigmund Freud, Erik Erikson, and Karen Horney. Horney focused on the development of women.
a) Identify two propositions (ideas or themes) that these psychodynamic theorists have in common. (10
Marks)
b) Explain why Horney concluded that environmental and social factors strongly influence personality
development. (10 Marks)
c) Discuss the relevance of Erikson’s first four stages of development to understanding the psychological
development of children in the 21st century. (20 Marks)
d) Discuss two criticisms of the relevance of Freud’s theory in today’s society. (10 Marks)