Psychology

Since 1999, Fenway has offered an elective called Dynamics of the Self.  It meets once a week for a two and a half hour block of time and is attended primarily by seniors.  The course is taught in a seminar fashion, using handouts and visual aids rather than a textbook.    Although it is an elective, an academic grade is given and it appears on the students transcript as Psychology.

The class numbers of no more than 15, enables students to develop intimacy and trust with one another.  Typically, important questions such as “Why do I feel the way I do and is it okay?” and “Why do I do what I do?” are explored in depth. This course includes the development of better communication skills,  self-image, anger management, and methods to deal with stress. The importance of self-responsibility is emphasized.  The class stresses confidentiality so that all members are free to express themselves  in a safe and comfortable atmosphere. 

Students who have taken this course  have stated that the program, which is more interpersonal than academic, gives them a welcome break from the rigorous academic components of Humanities, Math and Science.  In addition, many have noted that after taking the course they have become much more comfortable communicating with all kinds of people as well as greatly improving their listening skills.  The course exposes students to a subject matter, Psychology, that has become a popular major in college.