Introductory Psychology from the Standpoint of the Consumer

Abstract

Psychology and other majors were surveyed before and after completing an introductory psychology course to determine their interest in topics traditionally covered in such a course. No substantial difference between the two groups was observed. In addition, interest levels did not change significantly as a result of the course experience. Students were most interested in topics relating to their immediate individual needs (e.g., interpersonal relationships) and least interested in the “hard science” aspects of psychology. Results are compared to a similar survey taken 50 years ago. Implications for course content and organization are discussed.