Psychology as a discipline is both a natural and social science that involves the study of the brain, mind, and behavior. Advanced General Psychology for Leaders is a course that involves an advanced multidisciplinary study of the human dimension, behavioral sciences, and leadership development. The course examines the cognitive, physical, and social components of the human dimension using the scientific method to promote reflection, development, ethical reasoning, and critical and creative thinking. The learning outcome is that each cadet will be a more ethical and effective leader because of a scientific understanding of human behavior. With even more leader development application than PL100, emphasis is placed on applying the behavioral principles learned to the cadets' current lives and their functioning as future officers. The two course goals are that cadets apply the scientific method to investigate causes or correlates of human behavior, and that they use this scientific understanding of human behavior to explain, predict, and change behavior to become an effective leader of character. This course goes beyond PL100 (General Psychology for Leaders) in that students are asked to apply material at a higher level via reading and incorporating significant peer-reviewed research to address real-world Army issues. Students must also communicate their understanding of psychology and how it informs their roles as leaders of character via formal and informal presentations.
