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CampusBryn Mawr
SemesterSpring 2025
Registration IDPSYCB344002
Course TitleEarly Experience&Mental Health
Credit1.00
DepartmentNeuroscience
InstructorMukerji,Cora E.
Times and DaysT 01:10pm-04:00pm
Room Location
Additional Course InfoClass Number: 2589 Development represents a unique period during which the brain shows enhanced plasticity, the important ability to adapt and change in response to experiences. During development, the brain may be especially vulnerable to the impacts of harmful experiences (e.g., neglect or exposure to toxins) and also especially responsive to the effects of positive factors (e.g., community resilience or clinical interventions). This seminar will explore how childhood experiences “get under the skin,” shaping neurobiological systems and exerting lasting effects on mental health and well-being. We will examine theoretical models of how early experiences shape development, considering the proposed mechanisms by which different features of childhood environments could shape psychological risk and resilience. We will evaluate the scientific evidence for these models and then apply this knowledge to consider what strategies for intervention–– at the level of the child, family, and society–– could help reduce psychopathology and promote well-being. There is no textbook required for this course. We will read, critically evaluate, and discuss empirical journal articles and explore the implications of this scientific literature for public policy. Prerequisites: PSYC B209 or PSYC B206 or PSYC B218 or permission from instructor; PSYC B205 highly recommended Enrollment Cap: 16; If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: PSYC or Neuroscience Senior Majors/Minors previously lotteried out of PSYC344-001 in Spring 2023, then PSYC or Neuroscience Majors/Minors by class (senior then junior), then Senior, then Junior, then Sophomore.
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