Video/Book Library Summary
ABNORMAL
48 Hours: The Many Faces of Marsha
This 48 Hours program illuminates the mysteries of multiple personality disorder through
the case of one woman trapped in a maze of more than 200 personalities. It shows how
the personalities interact with each other and documents how Marsha’s therapists worked
with her many personalities to try to cure her illness.
Abnormal Psychology Series:
Vol.1- Looking at Abnormal Behavior
The program visits the Jackson Memorial Hospital Crisis Center in Miami, where
suicidal, depressed, and schizophrenic patients meet with psychologists, psychiatrists,
and social workers to assess the nature and seriousness of their problems. It also
introduces the various theories used to explain and treat abnormal behavior.
Vol.2- The Nature of Stress
We see that stress affects many people-from the overworked and out-of-work to survivors
of suicide and homicide, to Vietnam war veterans who continually re-experience that
stress of the battlefield. The program explores the long-term effects of stress and what is
known about how to reduce them.
Vol.3- The Anxiety Disorders
Even in the best of times, we all experience some anxiety. But millions of Americans
suffer from major anxiety disorders. This program examines two of the most commonpanic with agoraphobia and generalized anxiety disorder-and shows how psychologists
are making headway in treating them.
Vol.4- Psychological Factors and Physical Illness
This program examines the relationship between emotions and health to explore how
psychological treatment can improve well-being. It focuses on a teenager with migraine
headaches, a dentist trying to decrease his risk for developing heart disease, and a woman
with breast cancer, along with those who are treating them.
Vol.5- Personality Disorders
One in ten Americans has a personality disorder. Some are mildly annoying; others are
exceedingly dangerous. Viewers will meet individuals with narcissistic, anti-social,
borderline, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders, including a murderer and a
group of women who mutilate themselves, and will learn about the challenges involved in
both diagnosis and treatment.
Vol.6- Substance Abuse Disorders
Millions of Americans abuse alcohol, cigarettes, and cocaine. Health professionals know
a great deal about these dangerous and costly disorders, including how to treat them. The
program examines how the concept of treatment matching is used to help individuals
overcome a variety of addictions.
Vol.7- Sexual Disorders
A man exhibits himself in public. A woman feels guilty about not desiring sex. An
otherwise happy couple finds themselves at odds over sex. These people share their
private problems and demonstrate how the assessment and treatment of sexual disorders
has advanced in the past 25 years.
Vol.8- Mood Disorders
Depression is one of the most common psychological problems. In this program,
psychologists and biologists look at the causes and treatment of both depression and
bipolar disorder, and show the progress that has been made in helping people return to
productive and satisfying lives.
Vol.9- The Schizophrenias
In emotionally moving interviews, this program visits people who suffer from
hallucinations, paranoia, and psychological disarray of these disabling illnesses. In
addition to examining symptoms and treatments, the program helps debunk some of the
myths associated with the disorder and shows its human side and the strength of those
who fight to overcome it.
Vol.10- Organic Mental Disorders
A teenager must relearn all the basic skills following a head injury. After years of alcohol
abuse, a man loses his short-term memory. A woman sees her husband struggle against
the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease. Science and technology’s role in treating these
debilitating disorders is also examined in this program.
Vol.11- Behavior Disorders of Children
Almost all parents worry whether or not their child’s behavior is normal. This program
visits families of youngsters with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, conduct
disorder, separation anxiety disorder, and autism. In addition, experts in child
development and psychology discuss how to differentiate abnormal behavior from
developmental stages.
Vol.12- Psychotherapies
This program allows viewers to “sit-in” on five distinctly different kinds of
psychotherapy: psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, Gestalt, couples, and group.
Theory and practice are intertwined as these fascinating patients progress through
therapy, sometimes trying alternative models for the same problem.
Vol.13- An Ounce of Prevention
Imagine a society whose citizens are protected from psychological disorders. This final
episode visits several programs that are attempting to eliminate known risk factors
including social isolation, inadequate parenting skills, and old age-that often lead to
serious disorders. The stories are touching; the results are promising.
Autism
The eerie world of autism is shown through the experiences of a 44-year-old woman who
grew up autistic. Temple Grandin now has a Ph.D. and is trying to tell the world what it
was like growing up unable to speak and pick up subtleties of communication. Children
who in the past were diagnosed as mentally handicapped are not demonstrating that,
given the right tools, the can read, write, and understand; young men who were labeled
unteachable are now working and communicating their thoughts.
Biology, Brain, and Behavior: Living with Tourette’s
Enter into world of Elaine Levy and Darren Grynberg, two patients suffering and coping
with Tourette’s Syndrome, which is characterized by unusual mental behaviors as well as
physical symptoms. By following these two patients, viewers will learn about the causes
and brain structures associated with Tourette’s, in addition to the current treatments and
therapies available to patients similar to Elaine and Darren.
DAVID with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
David Vandenbrink seems like a normal, bright, articulate 21-year-old man. There is little
to suggest, on the surface, that while in his mother’s womb he suffered permanent brain
damage. David suffers from fetal alcohol syndrome or FAS, a condition that went
undiagnosed for the first eighteen years of his life, causing confusion, anger, and pain for
him and his adoptive family. The damage from FAS can be subtle or severe, resulting in a
wide range of symptoms from slowed growth or disfigurement to behavioral problems
including impulsiveness and aggression, and the inability to grasp the consequences of
one’s actions. This program provides a unique personal look at what it’s like to grow up
and live with the effects of FAS, through the words and experiences of a victim and his
family.
Frontline: Prisoners of Silence
Autism and Assisted Communication
Facilitated communication (FC) has been heralded as a breakthrough technique for
nonverbal people with autism. The method uses a helper to control the involuntary
movements of an autistic person's hand, allowing that person to type his or her thoughts
on a keyboard. Thousands of people have begun using FC, often to communicate major
life decisions like the desire to go to college or to move to a new home. But many
scientists reject FC as simply not real and believe that it is the facilitator who is
unknowingly controlling the hand of the autistic individual. FRONTLINE presents a
comprehensive investigation of this controversial technique, interviewing the leaders of
the FC movement, scientists, facilitators, and parents of autistic children and raises tough
questions about the implications of its use for people with autism and their families.
Frontline: Broken Minds
Three million Americans are thought to be schizophrenic. As medical science searches to
find its cause, society struggles to understand a crippling disease that has shattered
families and left tens of thousands on the nation's streets.
Infinite Voyage: Fires of the Mind
This thought-provoking program probes the brain and its abilities. Discover how brain
activity in children reflects how they learn, study the complexity of Einstein's brain, and
explore human creativity.
Madness:
Part One-To Define True Madness
This program explores past misconceptions and modern myths about mental illness. It
also examines how mental illness looks to others now and how it looked in the past, how
it has been represented in art and literature, how it feels to those who experience it, and
how it is diagnosed by doctors and psychiatrists.
Part Two- Out of Sight
Presented by Jonathan Miller. Examines society's varying approaches to coping with
madness. Miller also presents arguments for institutionalization and arguments for
patients' rights.
Not Crazy Like You Think
Join the members of the psychiatric self-help group, Solidarite-Psychiatric, as they reenact and express their experiences and the experiences of others’ psychiatric problems
and madness.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: The Boy Who Couldn’t Stop Washing
We all have our little daily rituals, but for some people these rituals have taken over and
rule their lives. In this specially adapted Phil Donahue program, Dr. Judith L. Rapaport
examines obsessive-compulsive behavior- fearing that something terrible will happen if
you don’t wash your hands 17 times before eating, or counting to 100 at least 30 times
before going through a doorway, or just making certain that the left sock always goes on
before the right. The program looks at symptoms, the diagnosis, and what is known about
cures.
Oliver Sacks- The Mind Traveller series:
Island of the Color Blind
Knut Nordby and his two siblings were born without the ability to see color. Declared
legally blind as a child and sent to a school to learn Braille, Knut rebelled. By developing
mental compensations, he taught himself to lead a normal life and today is a researcher
specializing in color vision at the University of Oslo. In this program, Knut travels with
neurologist/author Oliver Sacks to the tiny coral atoll in Micronesia called Pingelap,
where almost 10 percent of the population are congenitally colorblind. Together, they set
up a clinic and interview residents to learn about life in a society of people where so
many have never seen the world in color.
Rage for Order-Autism
The life of someone with autism, which is characterized by abnormal social interaction
combined with an inability to easily communicate, is often filled with obsessions and
unpredictable outbursts. In this program, neurologist/author Oliver Sacks meets Jessica
Park and tells her story—an encounter that offers profound insights into the nature of this
chronic disability and its impact on human relationships. With her parents, Dr. Sacks
investigates past efforts to define and understand this mysterious condition. In addition,
he explores the biological basis of autism with Dr. Eric Courchesne, neuroscientist at the
University of California, San Diego.
Williams Syndrome
When six-year-old Heidi Comfort, a victim of Williams syndrome, greeted
neurologist/author Oliver Sacks by saying, "Don’t be shy, Mr. Sacks," he was
immediately charmed. While children with Williams syndrome are endowed with
endearing personalities and strong expressive language skills, they often are challenged
by musculoskeletal deficiencies and developmental delays as well. In this program, Dr.
Sacks probes the nature of Heidi’s condition. What he discovers sheds new light on the
genetic basis of personality and provides fascinating insights into how the brain organizes
data and experiences.
The Ragin Cajun
The deaf-blind community in Seattle is extraordinarily vibrant, with a strong sense of
pride and independence. That is why Danny Delcambre moved there. Deaf from birth and
steadily losing his sight, Danny suffers from Usher syndrome. The region in Louisiana he
left behind has the highest concentration of Usher syndrome in the world. This program
takes a sensitive look at this degenerative condition, as neurologist/author Oliver Sacks
and Danny explore the nature of deaf culture and the marvelous richness of American
Sign Language, which includes a sophisticated touch-based variation called tactile
signing.
20/20- Kids with Tourettes:
This episode of 20/20 goes inside the lives of children with Tourette’s, such as Cally
Cason and David Kaplan. It touches upon some of the symptoms as well as treatments,
but mainly focuses on how kids cope with the syndrome.
Treating Borderline Personality Disorder
See how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) works to: decrease suicidal behaviors,
therapy-interfering behaviors, and post-traumatic stress, as well as increase behavioral
skills, self-respect, and achievement of individual goals. In actual therapy sessions, the
video shows Marsha M. Linehan teaching patients the use of such skills as mindfulness,
distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation in order to
manage extreme beliefs and behaviors. Viewers observe how Dr. Linehan and a team of
therapists work through the range of problems and frustrations that arise in treatment. In
this way viewers are brought into the team milieu and given an invaluable insight into the
efficacy of this approach.
*Accompanying booklet.
Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder
This important new video addresses three essential questions: What is borderline
personality disorder?, What causes it?, and How can it be effectively treated? A
straightforward introduction for therapists, the program explains borderline personality
disorder and provides a thorough overview of Marsha M. Linehan’s uniquely effective
treatment approach, called Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Viewers see segments of
actually case sessions (with patients’ identities protected) that vividly illustrate the nature
of the disorder and the intense emotional discomfort these clients suffer. This video
program clearly lays out the principles of DBT and brings to life the clinical issues
involved in working with this population. Throughout, helpful graphics support Dr.
Linehan’s instruction.
BIOLOGICAL
AAMC- “Science and Art in the Name of Healing”
Take a look into the world of medicine. As medical students and professionals share their
experiences, we are aware of the endless advancements of medicine. Within the sphere
of medicine, the “career possibilities are endless and the rewards are lifelong.”
At First Sight
When stress-out Amy (Sorvino) goes for a relaxing weekend at a spa, a handsome
masseur (Kilmer) not only relieves her tension…he also becomes her new boyfriend!
Insightful, compassionate and like no other guy she’s met before, Virgil has a unique way
of seeing the world…he’s blind. And when a miraculous operation promises to restore
Virgil’s sight, he and Amy believe they’ll be able to see the world together. But after the
bandages are removed, the two discover that even the most wonderful of life’s gifts can
come with a price and that both of them must now look at the world in a whole new light.
Brain Sex series:
Vol.1- Sugar and Spice
Are we correct in thinking that all people are born equal? There is a growing body of
evidence that men and women do not have identical brain structures which may account
for some of the differences in behavior between the sexes. As infants, females are more
sensitive to touch and sound and more attuned to people rather than to things than male
babies. That these differences exist at such an early age suggests that make and female
behavior patterns have more to do with nature than with nurture. Scientific studies
conducted on laboratory animals and humans show that sexual “wiring” is caused by the
particular mix of hormones the fetus is exposed to in the womb- that hormones have as
much effect on the sex of the brain as they have on the development of the male and
females bodies. When the mix of hormones goes wrong during gestation, a variety of
different behaviors can result.
Vol.2- Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better
As women continue to make strides in political and social equality, scientists would
remind us that equal does not necessarily mean the same. Differences being found in the
architecture of men’s and women’s brains can lead to differences in ability between the
sexes. Females tend to be better at language skills such as fluency, verbal reasoning,
written prose and reading, while men are better at spatial relationships and are more
intrigued by mechanical things. These underlying differences can help explain different
learning patterns among the sexes and have implications for our career choices. We tend
to seek tasks that fulfill our basic needs and our basic brains.
Vol.3- Love, Love Me Do
A look at the social relations between men and women reveals that the dating and mating
dance may be choreographed by evolution. Parts of the brain are differently constructed
in men and in women. In concert with hormones, men’s and women’s brains may process
information in different ways, which results in different perceptions, priorities and
behaviors. The differences can have profound implications for the relationships between
the sexes. The sexual revolution shattered the existing conventions, but men and women
today still display varying appetites and expectation from their partners. Understanding
and accepting these differences could make or successful relationships.
Harbor of Hope
This best-seller is an excellent addition to the curriculum of medical and nursing schools.
The filmmaker, who was struggling with disability issues brought on by MS, takes the
viewers into the lives of seven fascinating people who are all struggling with lifethreatening illnesses. The video explores issues around surgery, chemotherapy, doctorpatient relationships and the patient’s attitude. Essential for social workers, therapists and
support groups for people with AIDS, Cancer and MS. CEU credits available.
Misha: Recovery from a Serious Accident
This is the powerful story of 16 year-old Misha Heselwood, and her successful fight to
regain her life after being seriously injured. The program beings with Misha’s
hospitalization with severe brain injuries suffered in a car accident and follows Misha,
her family, and the medical staff over a nine-month period, charting her recovery from
coma as she re-learns how to walk, talk, eat, and eventually regain self-reliance and
independence. The program also examines how the family of a recovering patient must
cope with the emotional and financial pressures associated with the patient’s recovery.
Nova: Can Chimps Talk?
This episode of NOVA explores the possibility that chimpanzees and other primates can
use language to communicate with humans. The program introduces several researchers
who have spent their careers collecting data about the behavior and learning patterns of
these animals. Through the use of sign language, computer lexigrams, and visual aids, the
researchers have compiled a large body of evidence showing that the animals can
communicate. Some of this evidence relies on subtle observation and intensive contact
with the animals. In addition to exploring the scientists' theories and results, NOVA
raises questions about the responsibilities of researchers. Most of the chimps featured in
this program were reared in human-controlled environments and studied for periods of
many years. Because chimpanzees raised in captivity become dependent on humans for
their continued survival -- and chimps can live over 40 years -- scientists must be
prepared to care for the animals in a humane manner long after the research is finished.
Nova: In Search of Human Origins
Surviving in Africa
Homo habilis, an early human, seems to have been the first user of tools. At one time,
anthropologists believed that the tools were used for hunting. However, more recent
fossil evidence suggests that Homo habilis was a scavenger rather than a hunter, and that
the tools were used to slice meat and break the bones of carcasses that they took from
predators. Evidence presented in this program indicates that the first hunter may have
been Homo erectus, a later hominid. Homo erectus had physiological adaptations that
provided an evolutionary advantage over the australopithecines and enabled the species
to be hunters and predators. With a larger brain, Homo erectus had the intelligence to
hunt. In addition, a more developed spinal cord, jaw, and tooth structure enabled the
species to run faster and eat meat.
Nova: Life’s First Feelings
NOVA explores the incredibly complex emotional development of infants and examines
the current theory that early childhood psychological intervention can head off emotional
problems later in life.
The Brain: Teaching Modules 1-15
1. Organization and Evaluation of Brain Function
This module introduces the general external topography of the brain. To illustrate the
relationship between specific behaviors and brain function, the module begins by
showing a racecar driver exercising his skill, and then presents graphic illustrations of the
internal activity of his brain. The module reviews several methods of studying brain
activity including the CAT scan, PET scan, EEG, and MRI.
2. The Effects of Hormones and the Environment on Brain Development
This module presents some startling and significant findings relating to the effects of sex
hormones on brain development. Beginning with in utero photography and then visiting
an animal laboratory, this module shows how Dr. Marian Diamond’s ground-breaking
research has revealed structural differences in the brains of men and women, as well as
factors influencing these differences.
3. Gender Development: Social Influences
Shifting from the biological focus of the previous module, this segment shows how social
factors affect gender-specific behaviors. Mother-child interactions are shown, illustrating
typical differences in how male and female children are treated, and how this treatment
affects gender identity, roles, and expectations, and perceived differences in ability.
4. Intelligence and Culture
The issue of cultural bias in testing is explored in this module, presenting Judy Kearins’s
work with Australian children. White and aboriginal children are shown to perform
differently on visual/spatial tasks, and use different methods to arrive at solutions to the
problems presented. Theories of cultural influence on cognitive processing and the
shaping of the brain are suggested as explanations for tested differences in ability.
5. The Divided Brain
This module begins with graphic representations of the cerebral hemispheres’ specialized
functions. It continues with a description of the brain’s asymmetry, showing diagrams of
how the two halves communicate. The extreme case of a patient who has undergone splitbrain surgery for treatment of epilepsy illustrates the role of hemispheric organization in
sensory perception and verbal skills.
6. Language and Speech: Broca's and Wernicke's Areas
The left hemisphere is dominant in this module on language and the brain. Relationships
between specific brain areas and verbal processing are shown through the historic
example of Dr. Paul Broca’s brain-injury patient. The patient’s preserved brain is
subjected to CAT scan analysis, which shows correspondence between the damaged area
and the patient’s documented difficulties with language comprehension.
7. Brain Anomaly and Plasticity: Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus, a childhood disorder of excess fluid in the brain, illustrates brain
plasticity — the brain’s amazing ability to rebound after injury. While patients with this
disorder experience compression and destruction of brain tissue early in life, many are
able to function normally later in life, after their brains have compensated for the loss.
8. Visual Information Processing: Elementary Concepts
This module depicts the original pioneering research on how the brain’s visual systems
transmit and encode information. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley,
present their work on the visual cortex of the monkey using x-ray images. Two Nobel
laureates also recount their serendipitous discovery of “feature detector” cells in the
striate cortex that respond only to stimuli of certain sizes or direction of movement.
9. Visual Information Processing: Perception
This module concentrates on higher visual areas beyond the striate cortex, addressing the
questions of when seeing becomes perception and where it all takes place. Face
recognition provides an illustrative example — patients suffering damage to their
temporal lobes may see familiar faces, yet be unable to recognize them.
10. Perception: Inverted Vision
The peculiar image inversion process that takes place in the normal visual system is
examined in this module. The program traces the experiences of an art student who
volunteers to wear lenses that invert her visual world, connecting the adaptation process
she undergoes with how the visual system functions. Graphic animations reinforce
understanding of the mechanism involved.
11. Sensory-Motor Integration
Three spectacular dives of Olympic gold-medalist Greg Louganis provide vivid
illustration of the human body in motion. The complex visual and motor coordination
involved in sophisticated sensory-motor integration calls upon the faculties of the motor
cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. The roles of kinesthesis, vestibular functions, and
cutaneous sensitivity are also covered.
12. Huntington's Disease
Dr. Nancy Wexler of the Hereditary Disease Foundation and Columbia University
recounts her research on the demographics, symptoms, and genetic cause of this
debilitating illness. The module also explores ethical and moral dimensions of DNA
testing, which can determine who will develop the disease.
13. Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
This module covers our natural rhythms and the stages that occur during sleep. It shows
the brain’s electrical activity over the course of a normal night’s sleep, with its REM and
non-REM cycles. The remainder of the module is devoted to an experiment conducted by
Michel Siffre, a French cave explorer, in which Siffre spends seven months in a Texas
cave. Without external cues, the body is shown to have its own built-in clock.
14. Sleep: Brain Functions
What is the purpose of sleep? This module sets out to answer this question by exploring
the patterns of a woman’s sleep and dream cycles in the setting of a sleep laboratory.
Characteristics of the five stages of sleep and the typical 90-minute cycle are explained.
The module also covers sleep disorders and the current techniques used to treat them.
15. REM Sleep and Dreaming
This module probes deeper issues relating to sleep and dreaming. The uniquely individual
experience of dreaming requires researchers to look beyond conventional methods of
study. Dream specialist Dr. J. Allan Hobson discusses the function of dreams, explaining
his theory of the biological mechanism behind the phenomenon and reflecting on the
contribution of dreaming to human creativity.
The Brain: Teaching Modules 16-25
16. The Locus of Learning and Memory
In the history of psychology, the question of where learning and memory take place has
occupied investigators for years. Recent work at the National Institute of Mental Health
has brought scientists closer to resolving the issue. This module shows magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) technology being used to identify specific changes in the motor
cortex of human subjects — changes that correspond to training in particular tasks.
17. Learning As Synaptic Change
This module presents researchers investigating the structural changes involved in
learning. Research conducted at the Pasteur Institute in Paris shows that the learning
process involves the formation of new brain connections and the elimination of others.
Other researchers dispel the myth of brain loss in aging, present evidence of changes at
the cellular level, and review research on associative learning.
18. Living With Amnesia: The Hippocampus and Memory
Amnesia appears in many different forms. This module shows how the extent and
location of damage can result in varying levels of memory impairment. Footage of Mike,
an amnesic individual, demonstrates the result of an injury to the hippocampus. Mike’s
reaction to his memory deficit and drastic coping measures underscore the importance of
memory to everyday functioning.
19. Alzheimer's Disease
When this program was first filmed, Eleanor, age 51, was in the early stages of
Alzheimer’s disease. This module follows Eleanor’s physical and mental decline after the
initial filming. Pathology in the brainstem and other regions in the brains of Alzheimer’s
patients are shown to interfere with acetylcholine release, resulting in neuronal atrophy.
The module discusses our current knowledge of the disease and the direction of future
research.
20. A Super-Memorist Advises on Study Strategies
This module explores the brain’s potential for storage-as-memory. Rajan Mahadevan, a
“super-memorist,” demonstrates his phenomenal memory by scanning a 7 by 7 matrix of
digits and recalling all forty-nine digits forward, backward, and by columns. He also
claims to have memorized 100,000 digits of pi. Mahadevan offers suggestions to help
college students improve their study habits when learning new material.
21. Emotions, Stress, and Health
Commentary from scientists, dramatic reenactments, and graphic illustrations show the
consequences of prolonged stress on health. Animated diagrams show the brain releasing
hormones, followed by a role-playing situation illustrating on-the-job stress that may set
this process in motion. Researchers explain how low-level stress leads to the breakdown
of frontal lobe functioning.
22. Stress: Locus of Control and Predictability
The classic rat experiment described by Dr. Jay Weiss of Rockefeller University, New
York, is presented in this module. Two rats are connected to a stressor — an electric
shock to the tail. One rat is able to turn off the stimulus by turning a wheel, while the
other receives the stress stimulus regardless of what it does. The rat with more control is
shown to suffer fewer deleterious health consequences.
23. Multiple Personality
Tony, walking down a country road, is shown talking to himself about his multiple
personalities. Dr. Frances Howland of the Yale University School of Medicine describes
Tony’s case, and viewers are shown Tony’s therapy sessions as different personalities
emerge. The narrator explains the phenomenon as triggered in childhood by the need to
flee psychologically from physical or sexual abuse.
24. Aggression, Violence, and the Brain
This module links human aggressive behavior with specific regions of the brain. Scenes
from classic experiments show stimulation of a bull’s brain to stop it from charging and
excitation of a cat’s hypothalamus to trigger aggression. A striking case of violent human
behavior is then linked to a brain lesion — the surgical removal of which restored normal
emotional control.
25. Frontal Lobes and Behavior: The Story of Phineas Gage
This module relates the story of Phineas Gage, whose name appears in virtually every
general psychology textbook. After a heavy metal rod was blown through his temporal
lobe, Phineas experienced dramatic mental change. The study of the trauma and its
physiological effects provided the first documented evidence of how brain injury can
affect human behavior.
The Brain: Teaching Modules 26-32
26. Schizophrenia: Symptoms
In this module, mental health professionals observe a patient named Jerry, a classic
schizophrenic. Jerry’s case and medication schedule are described, and his disordered
speech and behavior are shown. Prominent psychiatrists describe schizophrenia and the
prognosis for those diagnosed with this disease; a locked psychiatric ward provides a
graphic illustration.
27. Schizophrenia: Etiology
This module covers the history of attitudes, beliefs, and theories about the etiology of
schizophrenia. While the illness was long thought to be environmentally caused, this
module emphasizes the scientific evidence in support of its organic origins. Dr. Arnold
Scheibel of UCLA Medical Center describes cellular pathology in the hippocampus and
speculates on the possible role of viruses. A genetic component is also demonstrated.
28. Schizophrenia: Pharmacological Treatment
Dr. Arnold Scheibel reviews the various ways in which schizophrenia has been treated
since the 1950s, ranging from the use of physical restraints and cool baths to the
administration of antipsychotic drugs. He and other psychiatrists elaborate on the ways in
which drugs alter the chemistry of the brain. Drugs that are effective seem to reduce the
levels of dopamine in the brain — to provide amelioration and stabilization, not a cure.
29. Autism
This module opens with statistics and a description of autism and how the disorder has
been viewed historically. Studies now support the theory that autism results from a lack
of normal neural growth during prenatal development. Dr. Temple Grandin of Colorado
State University, severely autistic as a child, is presented as someone who overcame her
autism and managed to use her way of perceiving the world to her advantage.
30. Understanding the Brain Through Epilepsy
In the midst of a young boy’s epileptic seizure, Dr. Fritz Dreifuss describes what is
happening to him on a medical level. He explains that a lack of adequate inhibitory
neurotransmitter function leads to an “electrical storm” in the brain. Different types of
treatment are covered, including valproic acid and radical surgeries, along with how and
why they are effective.
31. Brain Transplants in Parkinson's Patients
This module covers the symptoms and mechanisms involved in Parkinson’s disease. It
explains the effectiveness and limitations of traditional treatment using L-dopa. The
module then describes one of the most promising new approaches to treating Parkinson’s
disease — brain transplant — involving the implantation of fetal tissue into patients’
basal ganglia.
32. Neurorehabilitation
The promising results of rehabilitation after brain trauma have encouraged a growing
number of centers dedicated to working with brain-injury victims. Specialists at such
centers discuss the range of treatments now available, and the cases of actual patients are
reviewed. The module shows that people can recover significantly from brain damage.
The Mind: Teaching Modules 1-20
1. Mind and Brain Differences & Language: Apes & Humans
Makes comparisons and similarities between chimpanzee brains and human brains,
through the work of Jan Goodall with Chimps.
2. Endorphins: Brain Natural Morphine
Provides diagrammatic action graphics of neural networks, synaptic junctions, and
neurotransmitter sites. Also touches on topics of consciousness, drug addiction,
withdrawal symptoms, and nerve functioning.
3. Pleasure Centers in the Brain
Explores biological motivation and addictive behavior, and takes the viewer through
scientists' work on brain stimulation.
4. The Frontal Lobe and Cognitive Function
Explains the importance of the frontal lobe in human functioning, and covers brain
function, diagnostic assessment, cognitive function, evolution, and comparative behavior.
5. Recording Integrated Brain Activity
Illustrates the capabilities of the EEG to investigate patterns of brain activity.
6. Language Processing in the Brain
Demonstrates learning as an active process and shows the PET scan as an effective
method of measuring brain function.
7. Prenatal Development
Illustrates the early development of a fetus.
8. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Discusses the symptoms of FAS and the effects on the brain.
9. Capabilities of the Newborn
Covers infant development and the capacities of the newborn.
10. Infant Cognitive Development
Illustrates two ways of studying infant behavior: brain activity and visual fixation.
11. Social Development in Infancy
Covers infant social/cognitive development and the emergence of self.
12. Nature-Nurture Interaction
Explores how the study of identical twins can help determine how factors such as
lifestyle and diet may contribute to individual differences in the aging process.
13. The Aging Brain
Examines the effects of aging on the brain through money studies and tests on particular
brain regions.
14. Aging and Memory
Illustrates how a common form of forgetting involving future intentions can be studied in
the laboratory, and presents a new way of studying age differences via memory.
15. Environmental Stimulation and Brain Development
Introduces Dr. William Greenough's expanded studies on the effects of mental and
physical activity on the aging brain and mind through rat studies.
16. Alzheimer’s Disease
Provides a clear demonstration of how the advent of new technologies has aided research
into the etiology of disease.
17. Studying the Conscious through Subliminal Perception
Explores perception, the study of unconscious processes, and research methodologies.
Provides a good example of the impact Freud has had on psychology and how it is
possible to test some of his hypotheses in the laboratory.
18. Phantom Limb Pain
Presents a vivid example of phantom limb pain and raises important questions about the
origin of the pain.
19.Treating Chronic Pain
Studies chronic pain and examines physical and psychological approaches to treatment.
20. Attentional Aspects of Pain
Explores mental control over pain and dissociation of pain with the help of a ballerina.
21. Hypnotic Association and Pain Relief
Describes what goes on during hypnosis and looks at states of consciousness, hypnosis as
a phenomenon, and the therapeutic use of hypnosis in treating arthritis.
22. Depressants and their Addictive Effect on the Brain
Shows what happens biochemically in alcohol and drug addiction; deals with states of
consciousness, addiction, and alcohol-related abnormal behaviors.
23. Alcohol Addiction: Hereditary Factors
Deals with alcoholism, addiction, biological evidence for hereditary traits, and how
science progresses through replication and the development of new technologies.
24. Life Without Memory: The Case of Clive Wearing
Raises many questions about the nature of memory and its importance to human
existence. Introduces the viewer to Clive Wearing, who is incapable of making new
memories due to viral encephalitis. This also presents an extraordinary example of the
relationship between brain damage and memory function.
25. Infant Speech Sound Discrimination
Demonstrates how infants can discriminate between subtle sound differences; focuses
largely on infant speech development.
26. Language Predisposition
Deals with language, development, and research methodology; provides a good
demonstration of human sound recognition abilities.
27. Human Language: Signed and Spoken
Explores how sign language is processed; discusses hemispheric specialization, language
acquisition, the nature of language formation, and methodology.
28. Animal Language
Examines animal communication, the linguistic abilities of chimpanzees, and
comparative cognitive behavior.
29. Language and Culture
Relates to language development, the nature versus nature debate, and cultural influences
on behavior.
30. Mood Disorders: Mania and Depression
Presents vivid examples of the mood fluctuations of patients who suffer from periodic
affective episodes.
31. Mood Disorders: Hereditary Factors
Illustrates the findings of a 10-year study that involved 12,000 volunteers in an Amish
community and represents careful analysis of genetic factors related to manic-depressive
disorders.
32. Mood Disorders: Medication and Talk Therapy
Shows the effectiveness of combining drug therapies with traditional psychotherapy.
33. The Psychopath/Antisocial Personality: Nature or Nurture
Presents the definition of and specific behaviors related to psychopathy, and the ongoing
research on this subject.
34. Treating Depression: Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Provides a clear and dramatic presentation of the process and some of the effects of
electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
35. The Placebo Effect: Body-Mind Relationship
Explores a number of areas presented in general psychology, including biological bases
of behavior, experimental control, health, and mind/body relationships.
36. Treating Drug Addiction: A Behavioral Approach
Provides an example of how drug therapies incorporate the results of research on several
levels of behavior, and shows how patients learn to deal with environmental triggers for
cravings.
37. Stress and Health
Looks at the relationship of stress and health, and its effects on the mind and body.
38. Cognition and the Immune System
Looks at mind/body interactions and their relationships to disease and the immune
system.
The Mind: Teaching Modules 1-35 (1999 Series)
Accompanied by the faculty guide, which includes all the overviews for each module.
The Secret Life of the Brain series:
Episode 1- The Baby’s Brain: Wider Than The Sky
Examine how the brain builds itself from conception through the first year of life. The
mystery beings in the womb. Only four weeks into gestation the first brain cells, the
neurons, are already forming at an astonishing rate: 500,000 every minute. Billions of
brain cells will forge links with billions of other brain cells and eventually there will be
trillions and trillions of connections between cells. Every cell will find its place; every
link between cells will be carefully organized. How does it get this way? Neurobiologists
Susan McConnell and Carla Shatz are working to find out, by studying how development
is affected by the intricate relationship between genes and the environment. But what
happens if this carefully orchestrated process is interrupted? Ten day old Elizabeth, born
almost three months premature, is part of a study by developmental psychologist
Heidelise Als. Als wants to know if the difficulties preemies have paying attention and
learning later in life can be overcome by providing a special environment that mimics the
womb. Will MRI images reveal that Elizabeth’s brain has developed differently than
other premature babies treated in the standard way?
Episode 2- The Child’s Brain: Syllable From Sound
During childhood, the brain is a magnificent engine for learning, and nowhere is learning
more dramatic than in the way a child learns language. Most children learn to speak as
easily as a bird learns to sing, but Michael Blankenship did not. At five, by the time most
children have mastered grammar, Michael has trouble speaking in complete sentences.
How is his brain different from other children his age? What can Michael teach us about
the brain’s capacity for language? In early all adults, the language center of the brain
resides in the left hemisphere, but in children the brain is less specialized. Neuroscientists
Helen Neville and Debbie Mills have demonstrated that until babies reach about a year
old, they respond to language with their entire brains, bit then, gradually, language shifts
to the left hemisphere. But what happens if, during childhood, the left hemisphere is
compromised by disease? At three Michael Rehbein began having brain seizures; by the
time he was seven, he was having hundreds a day. Doctors diagnosed a rare brain disease
for which the cure was radical: the left hemisphere of his brain would have to be
surgically removed. Today, Michael bowls better than most children and races stock cars.
Although he speaks with some difficulty, he understands well, even though the left side
of his brain is missing. Dana Boatman, at John Hopkins University, has been testing
Michael ever since his operation. She wants to know how the right side of his brain has
compensated.
Episode 3- The Teenage Brain: A World of Their Own
New research has shown that during puberty, when the brain begins teeming with
hormones, the pre-frontal cortex, the center of reasoning and impulse control, is still a
work in progress. For the first time, scientists can offer an explanation for what parents
already know- adolescence is a time of rolling emotions and poor judgment. As the brain
matures, teenagers also face special risks- from addictive drugs and alcohol that can
hijack the brain- to the chaos of schizophrenia, which strikes most often during
adolescence. Eighteen-year-old Courtney was a star student in high school when he was
diagnosed with schizophrenia, the disease which crippled his ability to think, reason and
feel. Dr. Nancy Andreasen at the University of Iowa is studying Courtney and other
schizophrenics, searching to find which areas of the brain are affected and how to treat
the debilitating symptoms. Courtney responds to new medications that do not cure the
disease but allow him to function on a daily basis. Other teenagers, however, have a more
resistant form of the disease. Fourteen-year-old Sabrina experienced her first psychotic
break at age twelve and has been unable to find a medication that will control her
symptoms.
Episode 4- The Adult Brain: To Think by Feelings
Explore the critical interplay between reason and emotion and what happens when a
balance between the two brain regions that handle them goes awry. After a stroke
damaged his ability to be aware of his feelings, Marvin Bateman has lost the ability to
connect with other people, even his wife and children, and has difficulty making even
simple, everyday decisions. Where Marvin feels too little, Johny Cortez feels too much.
He suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Day and night, memories of a
year-old car accident send him into a panic, his heart racing. Roger Pitman at Harvard is
studying a drug that, if administered in time, might be able to prevent PTSD in victims of
trauma. For writer and psychologist Lauren Slater, an extreme sensitivity to anxiety and
the stress it produces may help explain her life-long battle with depression. Lauren is part
of a family line “riddled with mental illness.” But added to that genetic predisposition
was the abuse she suffered as a child. There is no cure for depression, but scientists have
developed effective medications that, especially in combination with talk therapy, can
help people with depression live productive lives. Treated for depression twelve years
ago, Lauren is now married and has a two-year-old daughter. She has drawn from her
experiences as a patient and psychologist to write three highly acclaimed books.
Episode 5- The Aging Brain: Through Many Lives
At the age of 95, Stanley Kuntiz was named poet laureate of the United States. Still
writing new poems, still reading to live audiences, he stands as an inspiring example of
the brain’s ability to stay vital in the final years of life. The longstanding belief that we
lose vast numbers of brain cells as we grow older turns out to be wrong. The normal
aging process leaves most mental functions intact, and may even provide the brain with
unique advantages that form the basis for wisdom. The aging brain is also far more
resilient than was previously believed. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham,
neuroscientist Edward Taub has developed an innovative form of therapy that helps
stroke patients like Kent Miller overcome years of paralysis by reviving the damaged
circuits in their brains. Overturning decades of dogma, scientists recently discovered that
even into our seventies, our brains continue producing new neurons. Might it one day be
possible to use these new neurons to replace those killed by disorders of the aging brain,
like Parkinson’s Disease? At Harvard Medical School, neurologist Jeffrey Macklis is
trying to find out, by trying to decipher the chemical signals that cause new neurons to be
born.
The Sexual Brain
Study of the brain provides some explanations for the differences between the sexes.
Mammalian brains, including our own, show distinct differences between male and
female in the thickness of the cortex and the size of the corpus callosum. The program
shows the startling effects of hormone injections on brain structure and raises provocative
questions about the sexual and reproductive roots of structural differences between males
and females.
COGNITIVE
48 Hours: The Wonder Kids
This 48 Hours segment goes on-one-on with some of the world’s Prodigy children and
takes a look at their incredible gifts of nature. From atoms and stars in the sky to
geography and the states we live in, nothing has proved to be too tasking to learn for fiveyear-old Benji. Sarah stuns her audience with her violin playing in the California
symphony at the mere age of nine. Eight-year-old Dorren Blake is the product of a type
of science, originating at the Genius Sperm Bank. Their project is to reproduce bright
children using the sperm of high IQ donors. Without the help of science and the use of
sight, seven-year-old Germaine has been playing the piano since he was only eight
months old. Once a prodigy, not always a prodigy…meet a man who had to relearn his
gift of piano playing after his 14 years of being a child prodigy.
ABC News Home Video-7/27/98
20/20-Segment One
Imagine spending and losing eleven years of your life in jail for a crime you did not
commit. This was the case of mistaken identity for Ronald Cotton. Listen to the story of
Jennifer Thompsen as she recounts the horrendous night of her rape and her fight to put
her attacker behind bars, only to find that she accused the wrong man. Listen to the story
of Ronald Cotton as he tries to prove his innocence and make known Jennifer’s true
attacker.
Cognitive Neuropsychology series:
Attentional Dysfunctions: Problems in Visual Orienting
After carbon monoxide poisoning, Stirling experiences attention-switching problems.
When performing certain exercises, it is evident that Stirling has object ataxia- problems
with visual input being communicated to the brain.
Central Agnosia: Loss of Knowledge About Objects
After suffering brain damage, Dennis experienced identification problems as well as
visual field defects. Glyn Humphreys presents Dennis with several recognition tests and
discusses Dennis’ case of central agnosia.
Peripheral Agnosia: Disorders of Object Recognition
John suffers from visual agnosia, the inability to recognize visually presented objects,
after experiencing a stroke. Since his stroke he has viewed the world as a black and
white picture. With the assistance of Glyn Humphreys, John’s ability to access stored
knowledge is tested and he also undergoes several recognition tests.
Reading for Meaning: A Case Study of Deep Dyslexia
Jim, who is a stroke patient, experiences a reading disorder which is referred to as deep
dyslexia. Elaine Funnell presents Jim with various reading exercises and assesses his
language difficulties, which include a great difficulty with reading function words.
Words and Sentences: Phonological Dyslexia Case Study
Like Jim, another stroke patient, Clive, also experiences language difficulties in terms of
reading and writing. Elaine Funnell presents Clive with various exercises assessing his
ability to read function/content words, imageable/common words, and nonsense words,
and his ability to pronounce letter sounds. Clive is suffering from phonological dyslexia,
where he is able to read words, but has poor reading of nonsense and unfamiliar words.
Creativity in Management
Learn from John Cleese the five steps that create an environment in which creativity can
flourish and be harnessed effectively.
Critical Thinking
Part 1: Human Emotions
Carol Tavris and Richard Paul discuss some of the common myths about the relationship
between thinking and emotions. Topics include: how thinking affects emotions and how
emotions affect thinking, the stereotype of the “rational person,” how poor thinking can
cause negative emotions, distinguishing between justified and unjustified anger, and the
communicative function of emotions.
Part 2: Mathematical Problem Solving
Alan Schoenfeld and Richard Paul identify the problems commonly found in
mathematics education, why those problems occur, and how they can be solved. Good for
all levels of math and science instruction. Topics include: student attitudes toward
mathematics, the importance of real-world math problems, the difference between
“reasoning mathematically” and performing calculations, and teaching for discovery vs.
lecturing.
Part 3: Infusing Critical Thinking into Community College
Richard Paul leads a discussion with community college professors concerning the topic
of critical thinking. They discuss the strategies and different approaches used to
introduce critical thinking at their different community colleges as well as the problems
they were faced with. The discussion also covers the most successful techniques used
and the long-term goals of the programs.
Part 4: Infusing Critical Thinking into 4yr. College
In this final video, Richard Paul again leads a discussion of fostering critical thinking,
though with professors of different 4-year institutions. They discuss how they
implemented their different programs, the obstacles and problems that arose, as well as
the goals of the programs. Concluding the video, they shared their different thoughts of
critical thinking and the changes and effects that have taken place as a result of their
programs.
Humour if not a Luxury
Find out from this speech by John Cleese how humor plays a major role in releasing
stress, putting things into perspective and motivating staff members. Humor facilitates
the learning process and helps employees be more effective in every aspect of their jobs.
Insight Media: Decision Making and Problem Solving
This program explores fundamental cognitive processes involved in making decisions
and solving problems. Experts discuss the potential application of research findings to the
development of computer systems that help teenagers learn problem-solving skills, help
us to understand how people cope with chronic illnesses and help us to improve
international understanding and negotiations.
Insight Media: Intelligence
In addition to graphically demonstrating the differences between intellectually gifted
individuals and those who are retarded or developmentally disabled, this program shows
how hard it is to define intelligence and to get experts to agree on how to measure it. The
program explains what particular intelligence tests are designed to measure. Historical
footage describes the origins of IQ tests, including some of the embarrassing failures of
intelligence testing. The arguments as to whether IQ tests measure aptitude- as they are
supposed to do- or measure achievement- as critics claim they do- are presented. The
question of whether intelligence is fixed or changeable is also addressed.
Insight Media: Research Methods
This program addresses the impact psychological research can have on the average
person. It explains what sound scientific research methods are and what makes these
methods so important. The program includes archival film footage and discussions of
controversies surrounding lobotomies and psychosurgery, as well as a discussion of some
erroneous theories about autism that have had tragic effects on many patients’ lives. The
program concludes with a segment on the cognitive interview technique which is being
adopted by many police investigators, and which demonstrates how psychological
research can be employed to help solve serious crimes.
Nova: The Secrets of Psychics (Copy 1&2)
Are some of us born with mysterious abilities? Is it possible to move objects at will, read
a person’s thoughts, even cure physical ailments-by harnessing the hidden power of the
mind? All over the world, psychics perform feats that defy the laws of science, do they
have a special link to the paranormal? Enter magician James Randi- aka “The Amazing
Randi,” himself a master of the slight of hand-who for decades has turned his trained eye
on phenomena from spoon bending to faith healing to astrology. Follow him now to
Russia, where some of the most phenomenal psychics are rumored to practice. Watch as
scientists at Moscow’s prestigious Institute of the Brain test a psychic’s ability to change
a person’s brain waves and blood pressure-using nothing but mental telepathy. Hear what
a pair of Russian psychics have to say about serial killer Ted Bundy, based on looking at
his photograph alone. Tune in as Randi uncovers the secrets about psychics- and takes a
penetrating look at the uncanny workings of the human mind.
The Importance of Mistakes
In a live speech taped before a New York audience, John Cleese takes a new look at this
old problem. He believes that "mistakes" are a crucial part of the creative process. His
frank and humorous treatment suggests new ways to provide an effective atmosphere of
support in which people learn from their mistakes.
The Nature of Memory
What is memory and how dies it work? Is what we remember a reality or merely a
creation of the subconscious? Can memory be manipulated by dreams or hypnosis? These
and other questions are explored in this program, which examines computer models that
mimic the functions of human memory; introduces studies of amnesiacs to determine
how and where memories are made and stored; probes the effects of emotion on memory;
and shows how memory can be altered.
The Skillful Teacher with Stephen Brookfield
At a teacher’s conference, Stephen Brookfield discusses eight insights of the learning
experience while incorporating information from this book, The Skillful Teacher. He also
draws on his own personal experiences of teaching for twenty years.
The Unbiased Mind: Obstacles to Clear Thinking
-Stereotypes
In an ordinary deck of playing cards, which king shows only one eye? Most people don’t
know. This perfectly normal “blindness” serves to illustrate our tendency to see only long
enough to label or categorize. Dealing with labels instead of individuals is a mental
shortcut that leads to stereotype and prejudice.
-Problems with Cause and Effect
Listen to the mysterious “Curse of the Grecian Urn” and decide why ownership of a
mysterious urn seems to cause so many untimely deaths. Could the urn be cursed, or does
it illustrate a common p[problem in assigning cause and effect? Find out what an athlete
on a “hot streak” has in common with a citizen concerned that an abandoned factory is
causing an epidemic of cancer.
- Seeing Only What We Expect to See
The “confirmation bias” explains why a thin person believes herself overweight, why a
higher price on consumer goods usually leads people to believe they are of higher quality,
and why believers in the supernatural are most likely to see ghosts. It explains why
psychics and horoscopes can so often be accurate, and why useless medicines or home
remedies sometimes work miraculous cures.
-The Invisible Self
Here’s a question the video asks viewers: “When you read printed words reflected in a
mirror they are ‘backwards and inside out.’ Why doesn’t that happen when you look at
your face in a mirror?” See how our “built-in blind spot” leads to muddled conclusions.
*Accompanying booklet.
Thinking Allowed: How Consciousness Functions
This video looks at the consciousness through the cognitive perspective with Dr. Bernard
Baars. Part I of the video goes over the history of psychology and discusses the
criticisms of different approaches, such as those of the fading behavioral approach and
the growing cognitive approach. Bernard shares elements of his own conscious theory
and begins to discuss unconsciousness versus consciousness. Part II of this video
continues the discussion of the unconscious and conscious. In addition, consciousness is
mapped out on a brain model as well as discussed on a PET scan. Bernard also explains
the stream of consciousness and the higher states of consciousness. The final part of this
series discusses volitional control in relation to consciousness and the organization of
behavior. Intentions of actions, through consciousness, the ghost signal, and the selfconcept as well as Buddhists’ concepts end the discussion on the consciousness through
the cognitive approach.
Thinking Allowed: Intelligent Systems (Video quartet)
-Mind As Society
Conscious intelligence may be viewed as a computer system composed of many smaller
parallel processing programs. Marvin Minksy is one of the acknowledged founders of the
mathematical theory of computation, artificial intelligence, and robotics. He argues that
understanding the individual as a very sophisticated machine actually affirms human
dignity.
-Expert Systems
Edward A. Feigenbaum is recognized as the “father of expert systems.” He is co-editor of
The Handbook of Artificial Intelligence and co-author, with H. Penny Nii, of The Rise of
the Expert Company. Here they describe the use of “knowledge engineering” to create
expert computer systems which function at levels of high competency in medicine,
engineering, financial forecasting, manufacturing, quality control.
-Artificial Intelligence
The science of artificial intelligence is a program to accomplish the Socratic injunction,
“Know Thyself.” John McCarthy invented LISP, the major language today used for
artificial intelligence. Here he discusses the history of artificial intelligence and the future
role which non-monotonic reasoning will play in enabling computers to simulate the
human mind.
-Infinity and The Mind
The mind itself partakes of infinity, as does every object in the physical world. Rudy
Rucker is author of many books including Mind Tools, The Fourth Dimension and
Infinity and the Mind. Rucker hypothesizes that consciousness need not be limited to
human beings or even to living organisms.
Thinking in Skillful Ways: Making Decisions and Solving Problems
There are three essential and overlapping components of skillful thinking: creative
thinking, clarifying thinking and critical thinking. Scenarios depicting college students
facing a variety of problems illustrate common thinking roadblocks such as hasty
thinking, narrow thinking and fuzzy thinking. The characters in the video help each other
recognize and overcome the roadblocks and use skillful thinking to solve their problems.
Clearly demonstrated is the importance of skillful thinking in the decision-making
process.
Top 10- Tips for Thinking Scientifically
Based on scientific investigation, introduce your students to a process of scientific
thinking that results in evaluating the validity of conclusions through a series of steps.
Students will learn how to define the components of a problem, the criteria of solutions,
variable, and the process of alternative solutions. Students will see how a scientific
thinking process is not just for studying biology.
DEVELOPMENTAL
Childhood-The House of Tomorrow
The CHILDHOOD journey concludes with a look at the many emotional and
physical transformations that characterize puberty and adolescence. This program shows
how that biological metamorphosis-when boys and girls become men and women-is
marked in various cultures. We see how whether adolescence is a time of stress or
manageable change critically depends upon how parents and teachers respond to a child’s
uniqueness throughout the years of childhood. The series concludes by reminding
viewers that it matters greatly what we do and say to our children-they are, as Neil
Postman once wrote, “living messages to a time we will not see.”
Nova: Secret of a Wild Child
In the fall of 1970, social workers took custody of a 13-year-old child who had spent
much of her life chained to a potty chair in her bedroom. She could not speak, walk, or
respond to other people. She was called "Genie." Her case attracted psychologists who
were interested in finding out whether she could still learn to speak. At the time, some
linguists, led by MIT's Noam Chomsky, believed that human speech is a genetically
programmed ability. Eric Lenneberg, a neuropsychologist, agreed with Chomsky and
added further that if a person did not learn to speak by adolescence, then the natural
ability to learn language might be lost forever. This theory was the so-called "critical
period hypothesis.” Although Genie's situation was one that scientists would never create
intentionally to test their theories, her unfortunate circumstances made her a prime
candidate for experimentation. Genie was past puberty. If she could still learn language, it
would cast doubt on the critical period hypothesis. Ultimately, Genie's caretakers were
criticized for combining their research with her treatment.
Nova: Stranger in the Mirror
Can you imagine having healthy, normal eyes and still not being able to recognize your
family and friends? This is the problem faced by people with visual agnosia, a disorder
caused by an injury to the part of the brain that processes images from the eyes. People
with visual agnosia can no longer look at common objects and immediately know what
they are. By studying an image or an object for a period of time they can often figure out
what it is, but in order to do so they must also depend on clues from their other senses.
For people with visual agnosia, identifying an object is like a mystery story where bits
and pieces of evidence slowly come to light.
Nova: The Secret of the Sexes
How are boys and girls “supposed” to behave? The Secret of the Sexes takes a disarming
look at how we type-case young girls and boys- in the way we think of them, act toward
them and teach them. Psychologists, teachers, sociologists and families investigate how
this happens, sometimes even without our knowledge. Find out why; parents still prefer
boys over girls by more than a 2 to 1 margin; teachers still reinforce traditional sex roles
taught at home; sex-typed toys influence a child’s behavior; and much more.
Period Piece
Period Piece is a different kind of film about menstruation- on that celebrates this rite of
passage in a girl’s life. Women of various ages (8-84) and ethnicities share how they felt
when they got their first period. They tell us their stories about how they were or were not
prepared. We learn about family dynamics, society’s attitude toward menstruation, and
girls’ feelings about womanhood. Old educational films are revisited in new ways adding
humor and historical perspective. This is an entertaining and heartfelt film about a topic
long considered taboo.
Preschool in Three Cultures
0:00-4:00 minutes: Introduction
4:00-27:00 minutes: A Day at Komatsudani (Japan)
In this segment, viewers see a class for four-year-olds at Komatsudani Hoikuen, a
day-care center in Kyoto. There are shots of children arriving, free play before the
school day begins, morning calisthenics, attendance and greetings in the
classroom, a workbook session in counting, lunch, a period of unstructured play,
an origami session, and departure.
27:00-43:00 minutes: A Day at Dong-Feng (China)
In this segment, viewers see a class of four-year-olds at Dong-Feng kindergarten
in southwest China. There are shots of children arriving, a morning health check,
children singing and dancing, a group visit to the toilet, a lesson in turning
drawings into three-dimensional structures using blocks, lunch, and outdoor play.
43:00-58:00 minutes: A Day at St. Timothy’s (United States)
The American school in the study is St. Timothy’s Child Center in Honolulu.
There are shots of children arriving at school, free play, a large-group word-skill
exercise, two learning-center periods in which the children select from a variety
of individual and small-group activities, a teacher dealing with a student who
refuses to clean up toys he has played with, singing, and lunch.
Season of Life series:
Vol.1- Infancy and Early Childhood
Begins with 1st years of life; exploring influences of biological & social clocks, how
children develop views, gain confidence & curiosity to venture beyond family.
Vol.2- Childhood and Adolescence
After period of childhood growth a dramatic move of biological clock brings on puberty.
Examines formative years before & during adolescence & stressful task of molding an
identity while biological & social clocks are out of synch.
Vol.3- Early Adulthood
Young adults hear message from social clock: to separate from family, get a job, find a
mate, set goals, etc. It's a period of intense social growth, when adults face development
legacies of previous seasons & make choices that will affect their lives into future.
Vol.4- Middle Adulthood
Some people in middle of life have attained their goals & achieved personal & social
command. Others have experienced losses, which prompt change in their life direction
Biological & social clocks are now fading in importance, & psychological clock has
greater influence. Creating a legacy for next generation takes on new importance.
Vol.5- Late Adulthood
Final season of life is dominated by psychological clock, while biological clock begins to
wind down. Series concludes with examination of this stage of development, when
people consider whether story of their life has been a good one. What might they still do
to change or add to their lives in this last season?
Silent (Quiet) Rage
Shows archival footage of Zimbardo’s landmark study on the power of social situations
as well as new footage of Zimbardo escorting current students through a mock prison.
The Breakfast Club
They were five teenage students with nothing in common, faced with spending a
Saturday detention together in their high school library. At seven a.m., they had nothing
to say, but by four p.m., they had bared their souls to each other and become good
friends. To the outside world they were simply the Jock, the Brain, the Criminal, the
Princess, and the Kook, but to each other, they would always be The Breakfast Club.
GENERAL
Discovering Psychology series:
Vol.1- Past, Present and Promise
Discover psychology, a fascinating science at the crossroads of such diverse
subjects as philosophy, anthropology, biochemistry, and artificial intelligence.
Vol.2- Understanding Research
The scientific method in psychological research is presented, along with date
collection and analysis in the lab and in the field. The value of critical thinking for
the average person in interpreting research findings is highlighted.
Vol.3- The Behaving Brain
Understanding the brain’s structure and composition offers new insights on
behavior. Scientists explain the bio-chemical reactions that determine our
thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Vol.4- The Responsive Brain
How does the brain control behavior, and how is it affected by the outside world?
This program explores the dynamic relationship between the brain’s own structure
and function and feedback from the environment.
Vol.5- The Developing Child
How much of our behavior is inherited, and how much is prompted by the world
we live in? The impact of hereditary and environment on children’s development
illuminates the age-old nature vs. nurture debate.
Vol.6- Language Development
Psychologists search for truths about the mind, society, and the culture by
studying how children develop complex language skills and learn to use language
in social communication.
Vol.7- Sensation and Perception
Seeing is believing- but how much do we gather and process information,
transforming raw sensory date into meaningful impressions? This program
focuses on the ways personal experience can influence our perceptions.
Vol.8- Learning
The principles of classical and operant conditioning show how learning occurs.
Renowned researchers who have influenced current learning theories- such as
Pavlov, Thorndike, Watson, and Skinner- are featured.
Vol.9- Remembering and Forgetting
A look at the complex process called memory: how all experiences are translated
into codes in the memory, why we forget, and how we can improve our memory.
Vol.10- Cognitive Processes
Why is the “cognitive revolution” attracting such diverse investigators, from
philosophers to computer scientists? The intriguing answer is found in an
exploration of the higher mental processes- reasoning, planning, and problem
solving.
Vol.11- Judgment and Decision Making
To err is human- but why? This program explains both the why and the how of
making judgments and decisions, and explores the psychology of risk taking, and
negotiation.
Vol.12- Motivation and Emotion
How do researchers go about discovering why we act and feel as we do?
Biological and psychological aspects of motivation are revealed in studies of
sexual behavior and the power of optimistic beliefs.
Vol.13- The Mind Awake and Asleep
Explore the nature of sleeping, dreaming, and altered states of consciousness.
Also learn how consciousness lets us interpret, analyze, and direct our behavior in
adaptive, flexible ways.
Vol.14- The Mind Hidden and Divided
How do events and experiences hidden below the level of consciousness affect
moods, actions, and health? Case studies of multiple personality and split-brain
patients are included, along with demonstrations of hypnosis.
Vol.15- The Self
How does society shape the image we see in the mirror- the idea of who we really
are? This program explores the emotional and motivation consequences of beliefs
about oneself.
Vol.16- Testing and Intelligence
What is intelligence and how can it be measured? The theory and practice of
psychological testing reveals how values are assigned to different abilities,
behaviors, and personalities- for better and sometimes for worse.
Vol.17- Sex and Gender
Are men and women psychologically different? In what ways are they similar?
Find out in this program, and also see how sex roles reflect social values.
Vol.18- Maturing and Aging
What really happens to the body and the mind as we age? This program focuses
on physical and psychological aging, and shows how society reacts to the last
stages of life.
Vol.19- The Power of the Situation
Discover how situational forces can manipulate belief and behavior. Also
included are the ways social psychologists interpret human behavior within its
broader social context.
Vol.20- Constructing Social Reality
How do mental processes color our interpretations of reality? Understand these
factors may help us become more empathetic and independent members of
society.
Vol.21- Psychopathology
Schizophrenia, phobias, and affective disorders are defined and explored. Clinical
psychologists examine the various factors that can lead to mental and behavioral
disorders.
Vol.22- Psychotherapy
How do theory, research, and practice come together in the treatment of
psychological disorders? Learn how attitudes toward the mentally ill have been
influenced by historical, cultural, and social forces.
Vol.23- Health, Mind and Behavior
In today’s psychological theories, a new bio-psycho-social model is replacing the
traditional biomedical model. Recent research is forcing a profound rethinking of
the relationship between mind and body.
Vol.24- In Space, Toward Peace
Arms negotiations and responses to the possibility of nuclear war illustrate the
psychology of peace, and psychologists reach out to new horizons in preparing
astronauts for the stress of space travel.
Vol.25- A Union of Opposites
This program presents a yin-yang model of complementary opposites to help us
understand the basic principles thought to govern human nature and animal
behavior.
Vol.26- New Directions
Prominent psychologists discuss the future of the field, new directions in research,
theory, and application. They give their views on how psychology can contribute
to improving the quality of our lives.
**Copies were made of all “Discovering Psychology” volumes**
Discovering Psychology, Updated Edition series:
Vol.1- Past, Present and Promise
Vol.2- Understanding Research
Vol.3- The Behaving Brain
Vol.4- The Responsive Brain
Vol.5- The Developing Child
Vol.6- Language Development
Vol.7- Sensation and Perception
Vol.8- Learning
Vol.9- Remembering and Forgetting
Vol.10- Cognitive Processes
Vol.11- Judgment and Decision Making
Vol.12- Motivation and Emotion
Vol.13- The Mind Awake and Asleep
Vol.14- The Mind Hidden and Divided
Vol.15- The Self
Vol.16- Testing and Intelligence
Vol.17- Sex and Gender
Vol.18- Maturing and Aging
Vol.19- The Power of the Situation
Vol.20- Constructing Social Reality
Vol.21- Psychopathology
Vol.22- Psychotherapy
Vol.23- Health, Mind and Behavior
Vol.24- Applying Psychology in Life
Vol.25- Cognitive Psychology
Vol.26- Cultural Psychology
Discovering Psychology Updated Edition (2001)
Vol.7- Sensation and Perception
Vol.8- Learning
Vol.13- The Mind Awake and Asleep
Vol.14- The Mind Hidden and Divided
Nova: Mystery of the Senses:
-Hearing
Hearing travels form the Artic Circle to the forest of New Zealand to explore some of the
ways we make use of sound. In the sublime quiet of northern Greenland, indigenous
people hunt seals with the help of faint sounds from beneath the ice. Unaccountably,
these Eskimo hunters are also losing their hearing- a mystery that confronts a visiting
research scientist. In New Zealand, the Maori people have woven music, song and chant
into virtually every aspect of their daily and spiritual lives. In the West, music is largely
for entertainment, but among the Maori it is used in warfare, storytelling, religion, sports
and virtually every other sphere of life. Hearing explores what it is like to hear again after
decades of deafness, as it follows Michelle Smithdas of the Helen Keller National Center,
undergoing a cochlear implant to restore hearing.
-Smell
In Smell, exotic smells virtually waft through your screen as Ackerman visits one of the
world’s largest creators of perfumes, where master “nose” (as perfume designers are
known) Sophia Grojsman is mixing a new scent from hundreds of bottles in her lab. What
makes a successful scent? It is instructive to watch the “nose” at work as she blends
smells characterized as “top note,” “middle notes” and “bottom notes.” These correspond
to increasingly more complex molecules that take longer and longer to evaporate on the
skin. Ideally, the bottom note is a desire-inducing emanation that hits the nose after the
fragrant top and middle notes have piques the olfactory interest. Ackerman ventures
outside the perfumer’s lab to sample a huge spectrum of smells, from frankincense and
truffles, to sweaty athletes and worse.
-Taste
Taste travels around the world to explore the variety of taste sensations that humans have
concocted to enhance our daily requirement of calories. Ackerman leads viewers through
some exotic feasts: lobsters prepared at Maison de Bricourt, a two-star restaurant striving
for its third star and the distinction of serving some of the finest food in France; the
elaborate traditional meal shared with departed loved ones during the Day of the Dead in
Mexico, and the street food dished up at one of the hungriest intersections in Manhattan.
Each of these meals is a blend of just four tastes- sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. Each taste,
we learn, was inherited from our distance ancestors as a means of distinguishing potential
poisons in the wild or for finding nourishment.
-Touch
Touch looks at our most sensual sense- the one that, arguable, gives the greatest and most
profound pleasure. Massage is one of the most intense forms of touch, it highlights the
beneficial effects of the tactile sense. For asthmatics, a therapeutic massage can restore
breathing. For premature infants confined to the isolation of an incubator, regular
massages are a potent substitute for a mother’s touch, since massaged babies can gain
weight almost 50 percent faster than those who lack such contact. For Ackerman, fresh
from a soothing mud bath, the touch of a masseuse is like a “caravan of sensations in this
ocean of calm.” Touch is also an inexhaustible medium of communication- from the
molding of artistic forms by potters and sculptors to the fleeing social touches or casual
acquaintances, to the prolonged caresses of intimate couples.
-Vision
Vision explores our most magical sense and the elusive truths that both art and science
reveal about sight. From Native American petroglyphs and the artwork of Roy
Lichtenstein and M.C. Escher to the latest 3-D views of the living human brain, images
are a prodigious medium of communication. The intricate neural pathways that process
images are evident when Ackerman submits to a “PET” scan, demonstrating how she
uses the same visual circuits to see an object as to imagine it. No wonder dreams can
seem so frighteningly real! “Forming an image does you no biological good,” argues
neuroscientist Margaret Livingstone (Harvard Medical School). “That’s not perception.
Perception is extracting meaning from the image.” As a finale, Ackerman tours a newly
created museum tucked away in France’s Loire Valley. This unusual institution delivers
an amusing and dramatic exhibition of an art design to engage all the senses.
The Life of the Mind: An Introduction to Psychology, series:
Sit in on some of Yale University’s Professor Richard Gerrig’s lectures on specific topics
of psychology.
Lecture 1: Interpreting Social Situations
Beginning the lecture, Gerrig uses a game show situation to introduce the idea of the
Fundamental Attributional Error. Other types of errors and situations are also discussed,
such as the Kitty Genovese incident. Throughout the lecture, Gerrig uses explains many
different studies of social situations and the thought processes that occur along with them.
Lecture 2: Coping with Social Information
This lecture covers the topic of persuasion and discusses four persuasive techniques: (1)
Foot in the Door, (2) Door in the Face, (3) Reciprocity, and
(4) Heuristics, supplemented with numerous examples and studies.
Lecture 3: Cognitive Processes and Memory
The main focus of this lecture is memory and the cognitive cycle. Professor Gerrig
explains the interactions of memory, the uses of memory as well as the structures of the
brain involved in storage. He also uses many cognitive/memory examples to enhance our
understanding of memory.
Lecture 4: The Development of Knowledge
In this lecture, the development of perception is addressed as well as language
development and comprehension. Also, the John Piaget theories of development are
brought into play.
Lecture 5: The Brain and Behavior
Three case studies are used to enhance the viewers’ understanding of the brain and its
behavior: (1) Classical conditioning (Pavlovian conditioning), (2) Declarative knowledge
versus Procedural knowledge, and (3) localization of speech and hemisphere differences.
With each case study, Gerrig shares information from numerous experiments.
Lecture 6: Personality and Individual Differences
Presented in this lecture is Sigmund Freud’s theory of personality development and its
stages, the social learning theory discussing the use of reinforcement against
punishment/discipline, and several different personality experiments.
Lecture 7: Varieties of Abnormal Behavior
In this lecture, the viewers will learn about schizophrenia and clinical depression. The
hallmarks and symptoms of each mental illness is discussed, as well as causal theories
and testing procedures. The lecture concludes with an introduction of the therapies
available to treat such disorders.
Lecture 8: Psychopathology and Treatment
Professor Gerrig uses this lecture to talk about common traits of therapy, the ideas of how
problems emerge, and different treatment types with the use of phobias as an example.
Understanding Social Security’s Disability Programs: Mental Impairments
Understanding Social Security’s Disability Program – Mental Impairments…
 Provides an overview of SSA’s disability determination process
 Demonstrates the essential role of various treating sources in the process
 Describes the role of the psychiatric of psychological consultants working in the
state agencies called Disability Determination Services (DDS), and
 Informs viewers about what kinds of medical and functional information DDA
needs in order to properly evaluate the effects of patient impairments ad make a
correct determination as early as possible.
*Accompanied by a program booklet.
MISCELLANEOUS
APA: Career Encounters in Psychology
This video explores the many settings in which psychologists work.
APA: Careers in Psychology
People study psychology for many reasons. They may want to help others overcome
problems and lead richer, more productive lives; they may enjoy research and its
application to social issues; or they may simply need to satisfy their curiosity about
human or animal behavior. Whatever the reason, psychology can be a challenging and
interesting career. Psychologists gain employment in a variety of areas as researchers,
teachers, consultants, service providers, even best-selling authors. They can be found in
just about every work setting that benefits from the analysis of human behavior and its
applications.
International Affective Picture System (CD-ROM)
CD-ROM filled with different affective (pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral) visual images.
Accompanying “Instruction Manual and Affective Ratings” booklet.
“Overview of the Active Eye Stack” (demo)
This video is an overview of the active eye stack. The active eye stack uses animated
displays, simulations and experiments to bring visual perception to life and enhance the
knowledge of its users. This program covers topics such as biological motion, perception
of space and form, social perception and letter recognition.
PSI CHI- Encouraging Excellence in Psychology
This video is a brief overview of Psi-Chi, the National Honor Society of Psychology.
Learn more about its goals, membership, and benefits.
The Hallway-Perception
Homemade video of different perceptions of a hallway (at various heights).
The Machine that Changed the World:
Learn how this multi-tasking, mind-like machine which can manipulate representations
of reality, called the computer, forever changed the world and technology.
Part 1- Giant Brains
This video looks at the history of the electronic computer and its inventors. What was
first developed for arithmetic, the invention of the first digital computer, called ENIAC,
was used in World War II, computing ballistic tables.
Part 2- Inventing the Future
The second half of this video delves further into the history of ENIAC and the beginnings
of the computer industry. Starting with cross country competition, to Remington-Rand’s
ENIAC versus IBM’s UNIVAC, to the dilemma of computer programs and languages to
the invention of the integrated circuit used to land a man on the moon, we are able to see
how the computer industry has changed and improved over time.
Part 3- The Paperback Computer
This third video introduces the beginnings of the modern computer, from the
microprocessor to the minicomputer. New computer features and programs are
beginning to be invented as well, including the mouse and programs used for graphics,
simulations, music and more. Within the video we catch a glimpse of the rising
competition between the newly founded Apple versus IBM. The movie closes with Bill
Gates and his highly successful company, Microsoft.
Part 4- The Thinking Machine
This segment of the series highlights the world of Artificial Intelligence and the
beginnings of robots. The viewers are showed initial robot experiments, along with the
hindrances to A.I., followed by the many uses of this new development. The concept of
the brain versus the computer is also introduced as to whether computers can truly
“think.”
Part 5- The World at Your Fingertips
This final video of the series discusses the modern uses of technology, especially by a
means of communication. From digital storing to modems to the Internet and finally to
data gathering and personal privacy, viewers are shown the capabilities of these powerful
machines as well as the dangers. The issue of personal privacy and information shared
on computers is examined, ending with a look at Singapore’s information economy
experiment and their goal of networking.
The Macintosh Lecture Advantage
Listen to two professors, one from UCLA and the other from USC, as they describe the
reasons and benefits of using the Macintosh to improve their lectures. This video
includes the preparation and presentation of material when using a Mac.
SOCIAL
B.F. Skinner: Keynote Address: Lifetime Scientific (Copy 1&2)
Behavioral psychologist B.F. Skinner resents this keynote address at the APA Annual
Convention. He speaks about the path psychology has followed over the years, from early
introspection methods to three kinds of variation and selection, including natural
selection, the evolution of operant conditioning, and the evolution of culture. This video
captures the wit and intelligence of Dr. Skinner’s last public appearance.
Candid Camera Classics for Social Psychology
Uses classic footage from Candid Camera to illustrate concepts such as conformity,
obedience, helping behavior, power of suggestion, and sex roles.
Conformity, Obedience and Dissent
This program explores social psychological research findings that illuminate why people
conform, obey and dissent in social situations. It examines why people deny individual
beliefs to follow an authority figure and discusses Milgram's obedience study. It also
investigates the seminal studies on styles of dissent and styles of leadership and the
phenomenon of 'group think.'
Dr. B.F. Skinner Part 2
This video presents an interview of B.F. Skinner which covers the following topics: (1)
the treatment of the mentally ill, (2) Walden II social values, (3) aversive versus positive
control, (4) the limitations of the present educational system, (5) reactions to theory and
statistical methods, (6) Freudian defense mechanisms, (7) a summary of his contributions,
and (8) his reactions to critics.
Friends and Foes: Peers in Development
Probing the importance of peer relationships in social and emotional development, this
program examines the growth of peer relationships from the social interest of infants
through the groupings of adolescence. It considers the importance of play in cognitive
development, as explained by Piaget and Vygotsky, and describes Parten's six categories
of social participation. It explores how peer attachments shift from those based on
concrete, observable characteristics to those based on abstract, dispositional
characteristics. Commentary from children of different ages provides insights into the
way the idea of friendship changes with age.
Frontline (1/20/98): Last Battle of the Gulf War (personal video-Skelton)
This episode of Frontline explores the topic of the mysterious illnesses of the “Gulf War
Syndrome.” Viewers learn about numerous individual cases of victims of the syndrome
and watch the beginnings of an investigation into the illness. Watch as investigators and
experts conclude that there is no conclusive “Gulf War Syndrome” only to later find out
that the Pentagon has been involved in a cover-up the entire time. As the war is
reconstructed, join the Veterans of the Gulf War as they discover that their ailments may
be an effect of chemical exposure.
Psychiatric Intervention and Care
Group Work: Fundamentals of Group Process
Describes traits of an effective group leader and illustrates the functions which the leader
must fulfill such as setting rules, structuring sessions and handling disruptions. Presents
models and strategies for dealing with patients who have problems such as being
delusional, manipulative, isolated or regressed. Discusses important benefits of patient
feedback and interaction.
Sell & Spin: A History of Advertising
Sell & Spin: A History of Advertising traces the development of promotion from ancient
phrases etched in stone to multimedia commercials in cyberspace. Discover how
advertising’s most creative minds influence what we buy, how we feel about ourselvesin sixty seconds or less. Sell & Spin: A History of Advertising tells a story of exclamation,
exaggeration and even exploitation, a story that journeys from Roman highways to
Madison Avenue.
The Amish: Not to be Modern
Focused on family, faith and farming, the Amish live without electricity, cars or
computers - but also without unemployment, environmental hazards or widespread crime.
Members of Amish communities in Ohio cooperated with filmmaker Victoria Larimore
to record their everyday lives over the course of a year in this documentary.
The National Multicultural Conference and Summit- “Science, Ethnicity and
Bias: Where Have We Gone Wrong?” (Stanley Sue)
This video is of a conference on the issues on ethical psychology. Sue presents questions
and arguments for ethnic research as well as several solutions discussed in his own
research. He discusses several examples of studies of ethnic minority research and
explains policies for the research. At the conclusion of his presentation, there is a
question and answer session.
The National Multicultural Conference and Summit- “Beyond Tolerance:
Bridging the Gap Between Imposition and Acceptance”(Thomas Parham)
Parham begins the conference with a ritual of unity and talking about the celebration of
multiculturalism. He begins his discussion of bridging the gap by defining intolerance
and examining the factors that promote such intolerance. Parham continues with
character traits of intolerance and his 5 assumptions of a multicultural movement. He
presents a solution of self-awareness and with the needed changes in people that will
provoke action to fill the void of imposition and acceptance. Among his final statements,
Parham includes some words from Martin Luther King.
Visual Space Perception Via Motion
Identifies and demonstrates many visual depth 'cues' in visual perception moving from
familiar static cues to those involving binocularity and motion. Uses 3D computer
animation to demonstrate concepts and models as well as 'real world' scenes which
students are familiar with. For use with introductory and advanced psychology classes
dealing with perception.
STATISTICS
Against All Odds series:
Vol.1- What is Statistics?
Discover how this complex discipline is relied upon to get to the heart of great quantities
of information. Historical anecdotes and brief profiles of contemporary applications
provide an overview of statistics.
Vol.2- Picturing Distributions
Are patterns perfect predictors? Construct stemplots, frequency tables, and histograms,
and understand the importance of pattern deviations, including gaps and outliers, in
examples drawn from meteorology, traffic control and television programming.
Vol.3- Describing Distributions
A few good numbers can be worth a thousand words. Examine the difference between
mean and median and learn of quartiles, boxplots, interquartile range, and standard
deviation. Also discussed is the advantage of back-to-back stemplots. An example of pay
inequity illustrates the principles.
Vol.4- Normal Distributions
How do studies on batting averages in baseball and age changes in population find
expression in density curves? A series of simplifications shows the progression from
histogram to a single normal curve for standardized measurement. Included are mean,
median and percentiles for density curves.
Vol.5- Normal Calculations
Vehicle emission standards and medical studies of cholesterol give practical examples of
normal calculations at work. Covered are standardization and calculation of normal
relative frequencies from tables, assessing normality by normal quintile plots.
Vol.6- Time Series
Discover how statistics can help identify patterns over time, answering questions about
stability and change. Trends in the stock market and studies of sleep cycles illustrate
these concepts. Topics include statistical control; inspecting time series for trend,
seasonal variation, cycles; and smoothing by averaging.
Vol.7- Models for Growth
Topics include linear growth, with review of the geometry of straight lines; an
introduction to the least squares idea; exponential growth, and straightening an
exponential growth curve by logarithms; prediction and extrapolation. Studies of
children’s growth problems and of world oil production provide examples.
Vol.8- Describing Relationships
Scatter plots and their variations are discussed in examples drawn from weight-loss
programs to manatee protection. Also covered are smoothing scatter plots of response
versus explanatory variables by median trace; linear relationships, least squares
regression lines, and comment on outliers.
Vol.9- Correlation
Find out how to derive the correlation coefficient and how to interpret it, using the
relationship between a baseball player’s salary and his home-run statistics as one
example. A study of identical twins further illustrates correlation concepts.
Vol.10- Multidimensional Data Analysis
This program recaps the presentation of data analysis by showing the use of computing
technology and a cast study at Bell Communications Research. A study on environmental
stresses in the Chesapeake Bay demonstrates the value of statistical principles.
Vol.11- The Question of Causation
Observed association may or may not represent causation. The relationship between
smoking and lung cancer is examined. A study of admissions data illustrates Simpson’s
paradox.
Vol.12- Experimental Design
Distinguish between observational studies and experiments and learn the basic principles
of design including comparison, randomization, and replication. Case material from a
heart disease study shows the advantages of a double-blind experiment.
Vol.13- Blocking and Sampling
Understand random sampling and the different between single-factor and multi-factor
experiments and the kinds of questions each can answer. A study of agriculturalists’
efforts to find improved varieties of strawberries demonstrates randomized block design.
Vol.14- Samples and Surveys
Can small samples give accurate information? Stratified random sampling is explained. A
1936 Gallup election poll yields important information about the concept of
undercoverage and the importance of careful use of sampling. See how a survey is
designed to ensure randomness and avoid bias.
Vol.15- What is Probability?
Distinguish between deterministic and random phenomena, and understand sample space,
events, outcomes and probability models. Examples include the work of statistician Persi
Diaconis on probability and randomness and a computer that models traffic scenarios.
Vol.16- Random Variables
How does a statistician calculate the probability of a space shuttle accident? How do
geologists use statistics to predict earthquakes? Learn about the idea of independence; the
multiplication rule for independent events; and discrete and continuous random variables.
Vol.17- Binominal Distributions
Find out how to calculate the mean and standard deviation of binomial distributions, and
see how the quincunx, a randomizing device at the Boston Museum of Science, illustrates
concepts. Addition rules for the means and variance of random variables are defined in an
example of predicting sickle cell anemia.
Vol.18- The Sample Mean and Control Charts
Roulette and the manufacturing industry offer real-life demonstrations of the use of the
central limit theorem, control chart monitoring of random variable, creation of x-bar
charts and definitions o control limits and out-of-control limits.
Vol.19- Confidence Intervals
Understand the two aspects of confidence intervals- the interval and the confidence leveland see how they are used in blood pressure studies, political and population surveys, and
primate research. Included are z intervals for the mean of a normal distribution and
behavior confidence intervals.
Vol.20- Significance Tests
A hiring discrimination case and a study of Shakespearean authorship illustrate the basic
reasoning behind tests of significance. The strengths and weaknesses of significance tests
are assessed. Defined are null and alternative hypotheses and P-values.
Vol.21- Inference for One Mean
Discover an improved technique for statistical problems that involve a population mean:
the t statistic for use when o is not known. Paired samples are emphasized as the most
important practical use of these procedures. The t confidence interval and test and
“robustness of t procedures” are defined.
Vol.22- Comparing Two Means
Learn how to recognize a two-sample problem and to distinguish such samples from onesample and paired-sample situations. Give a confidence interval for the difference
between two means. Demonstrate the two-sample t test with conservative degrees of
freedom.
Vol.23- Inference for Proportions
How do federal government statisticians estimate how many people are unemployed?
What size sample can give accurate results? Discover confidence intervals and tests for a
single proportion and for comparing proportions based on paired and independent
samples.
Vol.24- Inference for Two-Way Variables
A two-way table can show the relationship between two categorical variables in a single
population of a single categorical variable in several populations. The chi-square test for
independence/equal distributions in two-way tables is covered.
Vol.25- Inference for Relationships
Understand inference for simple linear regression, emphasizing slope and prediction.
Recognize when prediction is called for and the distinction between predicting a mean
response and an individual response.
Vol.26- Case Study
See how statistical principles come together in a case study that illustrates planning the
data collection, collecting and picturing the data, drawing inferences from the data, and
deciding how confident to be about the conclusions.
**Copies were made of all “Against All Odds” volumes**
Nova: Living Against the Odds
Join Richard Lewis as he explores the odds we face in our everyday lives. The first hour,
they explore common risks, such as gambling, car accidents, jobs, and even those
involving eating. Within the second hour of the program, they move to more rare events,
such as earthquakes, floods, and airplane crashes. The last part of the program looks at
those risks that pose future threats to the lives of humans, including pollution and
hazardous waste. Two separate cases are explored, that of a Polish city with its medical
problems due to extreme industrialization problems and that of a Massachusetts city’s
problem of hazardous waste disposal, and the its citizens’ fight against it.
Book Summaries
Career Paths in Psychology: Where your degree can take you (2 sets)
In this book, several psychologists who have achieved great success in a variety of areas
discuss their work: what got them into it, what they like and don’t like about it, what a
typical work week is like in their chosen specialty. These psychologists offer advice,
information, and the inspiration of their own career paths. They speak frankly about
salaries and job opportunities, and about what it takes to make it in their field.
Getting In: A Step-by-Step Plan for Gaining Admission to Graduate School in
Psychology (2 sets)
Applying to graduate school in psychology can be a daunting task. Competition is fierce,
and admission standards are high. Getting In reduces the stress of applying and increases
applicants’ chances of being accepted into the program of their choice. Applicants are
provided with manageable goals and the tools to achieve them. A resource section
provides a list of publications and organizations that are helpful in the various phases of
applying.
Graduate Study in Psychology 2004 (2 sets)
A complete listing of psychology graduate schools within each state, including valuable
detailed information concerning application deadlines, admission requirements, and
more.
The Complete Guide to Graduate School Admission: Psychology, Counseling,
and Related Professions (Second Edition)