Psychology 332A Special Topics: Gender and Violence
Fall, 2011, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30-9:45am
Instructor: Prof. Nia Phillips

This course investigates the role of gender in violence and abuse. Adopting a critical perspective, we will discuss the limitations of mainstream social constructions of forms of gender-based violence. Topics for consideration may include offenses such as domestic violence, stranger and acquaintance rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. Special attention will be given to the variability in prevalence, impact, and meaning of violence by gender. We will also consider how traditional, heteronormative understandings of domestic violence may fail to accurately reflect the experience of violence GLBTQ relationships. Psychological consequences of victimization will be discussed, as well as how societal institutions (e.g., the criminal justice system, social service providers, employers, etc.) could better address the needs of both victims and offenders.

Prerequisites: Psychology 101-102 and 278-279 or 251; or Women's Studies 101 or 102 and at least one other WS course taken at the 200-level or above; or permission of the instructor