Social Psychology
Course Description
This course provides a unified view of the field of social psychology organized around the concepts of social influence and power and exchange in social life and explores in-depth human thoughts, feelings, and actions as influenced by other people. Specific topics include socialization, perception of self and others, pro-social and anti-social behavior, attitudes, interpersonal attraction, social influence, and group behavior.
Topics and Objectives
Social Psychology and "the Self"
- Define social psychology.
- Explain the role of research in social psychology.
- Define the concept of "the self" in the social world.
- Apply the concepts of socialization to personal development.
Group Influence
- Analyze the impact of group influence on the self.
- Examine the relationship between group influence and cultural identity.
Social Beliefs and Judgments/Beliefs and Attitudes
- Analyze the social, cultural, and spiritual influences on ethics.
- Describe the reciprocal relationship between behavior and attitudes.
- Explain how individuals rationalize their behavior using cognitive dissonance theory.
Persuasion and Conflict
- Examine the elements of persuasion.
- Assess the effects of persuasion on the individual in society.
- Describe the elements of conflict resolution and peacemaking.
Altruism
- Examine the various motivations to engage in altruistic behavior.
- Examine the concepts of philanthropy, social activism, and volunteerism in terms of the social exchange theory and pro-social behavior.