Introductory description

The module discusses social psychology as the scientific study of human behaviour as influenced by other people and the social context in which this occurs.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Introduction to Social Psychology
Conformity and Obedience
Compliance and Social Influence
Social Cognition and Decision Making
Groups
The Self
Attribution
Attitude Change
Persuasion
Stereotyping and Prejudice
Revision

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• At the end of the module students should be able to: · understand and discuss and evaluate methods for studying social psychology, and the relation between phenomena, research methods, data and theories;
• and be able critically to discuss theory and research on the following topics: · social cognition, persuasion, and social influence
• social perception, attribution and inference
• attitude structure, function and change
• behaviour within and between groups

Indicative reading list

Gilovich, T., Keltner, D., Chen, S., & Nisbett, R. E. (2018). Social psychology, 5th Edition. International student edition. Publishers: WW Norton

Subject specific skills

Evaluate methods for studying social psychology, understanding of the relationship between different areas of psychology as a discipline, understanding of the relationship between phenomena, research methods, data and theories

Subject material in Social Psychology promotes understanding in :

1. Ethical values: Integrity, Learning about personal biases.
2. Inter-cultural awareness
3. Sustainability: Learning research related to environmental attitudes.

Transferable skills

Core skills:
Communication (Formal writing in essay exam)
Critical Thinking: (critically discuss theory and research)
Professionalism: (effective personal planning skills)