Chapter 5 - Adulthood and Old Age (EC)

"Postpone Aging"

Introduction
Statistics tell us that people are living decades longer than at the turn of the century, but is it possible that we could live to be a healthy 150 years old? For years scientists and psychologists have been studying the aging process and its effects, and now current research has begun to provide us with some answers to how aging actually happens. Find out if aging is something that you can put off until later surfing through these Web sites.

Web sites
Longevity
Find out why people are living healthier longer with fewer disabilities and why the trend is likely to continue at this MSNBC special report.

Living to 100
Use this fun life expectancy calculator to see how old you will live to be. This will help you with the activity below.

National Institute on Aging
Skim through this statement read before the United States Senate on aging and longevity research.

Extra Credit Activity
You learned in this chapter that your present habits will contribute to the status of your health in old age. Go to the "life expectancy calculator" topic on the MSNBC site to determine your projected life expectancy. Assuming you are 20 and retaining current lifestyle, calculate your life expectancy. Next, modify certain factors to see how changing some habits can impact your life span. In 100-150 words, describe your initial results, your modified results, and any changes that could make you healthier in old age.

Due March 7th

Chapter 4 - Adolescence

"My Friend Has a Drug Problem"

Introduction
Do you know someone who is letting alcohol and other drugs control their life? As you learned in this chapter, adolescent feelings of invulnerability and depression can contribute to teen substance abuse. Being a friend to someone who is abusing alcohol and other drugs could mean that you can help them recognize the problem. You can use the Internet as a resource of material on adolescent depression and substance abuse. The Web sites below have a guide about helping a friend who has a drug or alcohol abuse problem.

Web sites
A Guide for Teens
Do you know the warning signs a friend might display if he/she has a substance abuse problem? Review this Web site to find out further information.

NIDA for Teens
Discover the facts behind teenage drug abuse by visiting this Web site.

Activity
Based on what you have learned, imagine two friends who are confronting a substance abuse problem.  Write a short skit using dialogue that convinces the abuser to seek help.
Do a video of skit (2-5min) for EXTRA CREDIT!

Response (1) - DUE Wednesday2/15

Comments (2) - DUE Friday 2/17

Welcome to Psychology!

Think about your personal reasons for studying psychology.  Write an entry in your own words describing what you hope to gain from this experience.

• What is Psychology?
•  How can it help you? 
• What do you expect to learn in this introductory psychology class?

Response (1) - DUE Wednesday 1/25

Comments (2) - DUE Friday 1/27