About the Course
Psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics on why rewards work — and when they stop working for us.
How can we harness the power of rewards to improve our mental health and wellbeing? Is there a fine line between rewards that are beneficial and those that are harmful to our lives? This course examines the complex world of rewards. We explore different categories of rewards (e.g., social, monetary, natural/primary) and uncover how they can be effectively implemented to enhance wellbeing and mental health. We also discuss the consequences of unbalanced responses to rewards, such as addiction, binge eating, and substance use disorders.
Drawing on research from psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of the role rewards play in shaping our lives and our mental health — and of the delicate balance between constructive and destructive responses to rewards, and how this balance affects our pursuit of a fulfilling life.
Main Assignment
Coursework designed to leave the classroom.
Resources for a Local Non-Profit
Through Harvard’s Mindich Program in Engaged Scholarship, students develop materials and resources that are used by a local non-profit working mainly with immigrants and refugees — turning the psychology of reward into tools with a life beyond the semester.
Where & When
Three institutions, in person and online.
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Harvard College
PSY 1020
Spring 2024 – present (Mon/Wed lecture, WJH).
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Harvard Extension School
PSYC E-1565
Fall 2024 · next offered Spring 2027.
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Columbia University
PSYC UN3212 (seminar)
Spring 2024.
What Students Say
From end-of-term evaluations.
“His lectures are engaging and make complex topics easy to understand, making each class memorable — like something out of an Ivy League movie.”
The Psychology of Rewards · Columbia University
“He is engaging, brilliant, and manages to make every participant, whether in person or on Zoom, feel they are right there in the class.”
The Psychology of Rewards · Harvard Extension School Online