PSYC 362(F) Psychoneuroimmunology

An in-depth study of the interactions between the brain and the immune system. We will review the impact of psychological variables such as stress, personality characteristics, and psychopathology on immune function. We will also explore the neural and hormonal mechanisms that may underlie these psychological influences. Finally, we will examine the ways in which an immune response can affect the brain: changes in nerve cell activity, discrete regions of the brain, neurochemical systems, and behavior. Students will review data from both human and animal studies, as well as animal models of human disorders. Specific topics for discussion will include sleep and immunity, classical conditioning of immune responses, links between immunological and neurological disorders, and controversial theories of the immunological roots of psychopathology. Requirements: midterm and final exams, seminar presentations, and written and oral presentations of research project. Prerequisites: Psychology 262 or 212 or permission of instructor. Empirical Project

Hour:  FRIEDMAN