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Jul 30, 2025
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PSY 1932 - PSYCHOLOGY OF EATING AND DRINKING
credits: 3.0
Provide an in-depth examination of the mechanisms supporting human eating and drinking, including basic physiological processes, psychological factors, and environmental influences. Will begin with an examination of the brain mechanisms supporting hunger, satiety, thirst, taste, and weight regulation. Will then embark on an exploration of psychological and environmental factors that influence what we eat, when we eat, and how much we eat, with a particular focus on issues related to “mindless eating” behaviors. A broader analysis of these factors will also be presented within the context of modern American culture by examining trends in current food production and consumption. Objectives: A) Identify the basic physiological mechanisms that support hunger, satiety, thirst, taste, and weight regulation; B) Describe important psychological and environmental factors that influence eating behaviors, including the nature of “mindless eating;” C) Identify risk factors and describe treatments for problems related to eating and drinking, such as obesity, overeating, eating disorders, and alcohol abuse; D) Analyze issues related to modern food culture, such as industrial food production, local and organic food movements, food marketing, and the proliferation of fast food and convenience foods. Method of Instruction: Will include some lecture on each major topic, but there will also be a focus on in-class discussion of the readings. The readings will be supplemented with in-class viewings of relevant film clips and occasional student presentations. May also be supplemented by guest speakers (e.g., psychologist who treats eating disorders) or local field trips (e.g., farmer’s market). Method of Evaluation: Will incorporate a midterm and a final based on material covered in the course texts and lectures, as well as several short quizzes. Participation will be assessed based on contribution to class discussions. Students will also be required to write several short reflection papers, each analyzing a separate topic discussed in class, appearing in the readings, or related to a film shown in class. At the end of the course, students will be required to do an in-class presentation on a selected research topic. Meets *PEW Distribution Requirements.
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