Psychology and Food (383-0-1)

Instructors

Sara C Broaders
847/491-3652
Swift 243, 2029 Sheridan Road

Meeting Info

Swift Hall 210: Wed 3:30PM - 6:20PM

Overview of class

This course will explore the psychology of food and eating. We'll look at evolutionary, social, cultural, cognitive, and biological perspectives on eating behavior and food choice. Among the issues that we'll explore are: why we eat, what we eat, how much we eat, what we won't eat, and why we sometimes eat too much. Since this is an upper-level research course, we will focus on psychological theories, methodological issues, and empirical research in this area. Students will also engage in designing, conducting, analyzing, and writing up an empirical research project during the quarter.

NOTE: We will NOT be covering eating disorders. This course is about normal processes and influences on eating behavior and food choice.

Registration Requirements

PSYCH 301-Research Methods (formerly PSYCH 205)

Teaching Method

Primarily discussion and hands-on research activities, supplemented with videos and some brief lectures.

Evaluation Method

Grades will be based on weekly written discussion questions, finding and summarizing empirical research articles, participation in class discussion, contributions to class data collection, and an empirical research project.

Class Materials (Required)

Pollan, M. (2009). In defense of food: An eater's manifesto. New York: Penguin. ISBN: 978-0143114963

Wansink, B. (2010). Mindless eating: Why we eat more than we think. New York: Bantam Books. ISBN: 978-0553384482

In addition to the books, we will use a number of articles and resources from other sources, which will be available in the Canvas course management system.

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-registration -- Reserved for Psychology students. Prerequisite: Students must complete Psych 301-0 before taking this course.