Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - PSYC 391 D200

Selected Topics in Psychology (3)

Indigenous Peoples & Psychology

Class Number: 3249

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201. Other prerequisites vary by topic offering.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Course can be repeated for credit. Students may not take this course for further credit if similar topics are covered. See Psychology department website for course description.

COURSE DETAILS:

Pre-requisites: PSYC 201W – Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology. Pre-requisites may be waived with permission from the Psychology Department and course instructor.

Course Description
Content Advisory: This course discusses topics that may be sensitive to students, including but not limited to Residential Schools, Indian Hospitals, physical and sexual abuse, and suicide.
This course examines the legacy of colonialism and policies of the Canadian government, such as Residential Schools and Indian Hospitals, and their effects on psychological and physical well-being of Indigenous peoples.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

(1) Identify and understand the consequences of colonialism and discrimination as it pertains to the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples
(2) Develop a deeper understanding of Canadian policies, past and present, used against Indigenous peoples and the current strategies to address their consequences
(3) Evaluate and self-critique one’s own cultural knowledge, cultural humility, and personal biases
(4) Understand the strategies used to conduct ethical participatory action research with Indigenous peoples and communities

Grading

  • In-Class "Reflections": 10%
  • Term Paper: 30%
  • Midterm Exam: 25%
  • Final Exam: 35%

NOTES:

Topics:
Past and Current Trends in Indigenous Mental and Physical Health; Intergenerational and Historical Trauma; Truth and Reconciliation; Indigenous Peoples and the Criminal Justice & Child Welfare Systems; Racism; Indigenous Research Methods; Wellness and Sources of Healing; DSM-5-TR and Indigenous Populations

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

There is no required textbook for this course. Required reading materials will be available on Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.