Bristol Counseling Associates, Inc.

Dr. Stephen A. Paterna

This document is an archive and for general interest only.

1. OVERVIEW
2. COURSE OBJECTIVES
3. COURSE FORMAT
4. ATTENDANCE POLICY
5. EXAMINATIONS
6. GRADING POLICY
7. REQUIRED READING
8. CONTACT INFO
9. CURRICULUM OUTLINE

OVERVIEW

INSTRUCTOR: Stephen Paterna, Ph.D.

TEXT: ADOLESCENCE. John W. Santrock, McGraw-Hill, 9th Edition.

This course examines the adolescent stage of life within the context of contemporary American culture. Adolescence is viewed within the context of the entire life cycle, especially in relation to those phases of life which immediately precede and follow. Several of the various theoretical approaches to understanding adolescence are explored.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

• To gain an understanding and appreciation of the roles various theoretical formulations play in understanding adolescence.
• To expand and deepen one’s understanding of adolescence as an important phase in the life cycle.
• To gain a comprehensive understanding of adolescence from the biological, socio-cultural, cognitive / developmental, intrapsychic, and historical perspectives.
• To gain a deeper understanding of the tasks and conflicts adolescents confront in contemporary American culture.

COURSE FORMAT

The primary method of discussion will include lecture and class discussion. This consists not only of presentation of material, but also significant use of illustration and example to increase understanding of important and complex topics. Students are encouraged to ask questions. The use of audio tapes is suggested to supplement active note – taking during class periods.

Class lectures and discussions are designed to explain concepts and material presented in the course text, as well as provide supplementary material not presented in the text. Therefore, class attendance is considered essential to success in this course.

Students are expected to assume the responsibility of carrying out the required reading for specific content areas in advance of its scheduled presentation in class.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Attendance will be taken at each session. This course will adhere to the BCC policy on attendance. Should a student know ahead of time that he / she will be absent on a particular date, it is advised to inform the instructor ahead of that date and to make arrangements to procure notes, handouts, and assignments. Inability to attend scheduled examinations should be communicated to the Continuing Education Office as well as the instructor. Arrangements for make – up examinations must be made on an individual basis.

EXAMINATIONS

There will be two examinations: a midterm and a final. Material covered on the midterm will not be included in the final.

GRADING POLICY

Each examination will be weighted to represent 40% of the final grade. Class attendance, participation, and completion of assignments is weighted to represent 20% of the final grade.

REQUIRED READING

• Course Text: ADOLESCENCE - John W. Santrock, McGraw-Hill, 9th Edition
• Supplementary handouts

COMMUNICATION

Telephone: (508) xxx-xxxx

Mailing Address Only:
-street removed-
Dr. Stephen Paterna Lakeville, MA 02347-1810

E-Mail: see my Contact Page

CURRICULUM OUTLINE

1. The Nature of Adolescence
   1. Introduction and Overview
   2. Historical Perspective
   3. Contemporary Perspectives
   4. Entering the 21st Century
   • Text: Chapters 1 & 2
2. Biological Development and Sexuality
   1. Biological Aspects of Puberty / Menarche
   2. Gender Identity and Sexuality
   • Text: Chapters 3, 10, 11
3. Cognitive Development
   1. Constructive Approach
   2. Psychometric Approach
   3. Other Approaches
   • Text: Chapter 4
4. Personality Development
   1. Identity and the Development of Self Concept
   2. Moral Development, Values, Careers
   • Text: Chapters 9, 12, 13
5. Sociological Contexts
   1. Peers
   2. Families
   3. Schools and General Culture
   • Text: Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8
6. Adolescent Problems
   1. Intrapsychic Problems
   2. Social Problems
   • Text: Chapter 14