Mar 29, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Academic Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Undergraduate Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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SS 467 - Social Psychology

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits
Course Description
This course provides an overview of the diverse and rapidly changing field of Social Psychology. Social Psychology can be defined as “the scientific field that seeks to understand the nature and causes of individual behavior and thought in social situations.” (Baron & Byrne, Social Psychology). It has often been called the “psychology of the normal person.” By studying social psychology we can become more aware of how and why we behave, think, and feel as we do in situations involving others. The course emphasizes social psychology’s fundamental areas and methods of study, as well as its applications. Specific areas of investigation include: social cognition and perception, attitudes, social identity, the self, prejudice, interpersonal attraction, close relationships, social influence, prosocial behavior, aggression, and group dynamics. Through this course, the student should gain an enhanced understanding of how the findings of psychology apply to everyday life. (prereq: none) 
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Explain basic knowledge of the major theories and principles of social psychology
  • Develop a greater understanding of how social situations shape the individual’s perceptions of and attitudes toward self and others, as well as one’s interactions with others
  • Critically evaluate current issues in the field of social psychology
  • Demonstrate an understanding of social psychological information through written and oral communication
  • Have an understanding of and apply the principles of social psychological inquiry to one’s own mental processes and to that of others
  • Gain a greater understanding and appreciation of, and respect for, human diversity

Prerequisites by Topic
  • None

Course Topics
  • Overview of course (1 class)
  • The field of Social Psychology (2 classes)
  • Social Perception and Social Cognition (5 classes)
  • Attitudes (2 classes)
  • The Self (2 classes)
  • Prejudice (2 classes)
  • Interpersonal Attraction and Close Relationships (5 classes)
  • Social Influence (2 classes)
  • Prosocial (helping) Behavior (2 classes)
  • Aggression (2 classes)
  • Groups and Individuals (3 classes)
  • Exam periods (2 classes)

Coordinator
Jan Fertig



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