SUBJECT
Social Psychology 2.
lecture+seminar
Autumn/spring semester
Aim of the course:
The course continues to present the basic principles of social psychology by discussing topics
related to social behavior on (1) an interpersonal level, such as intimate relationships, helping,
and aggression; (2) group level processes, such as group formation and dynamics, decisionmaking
in groups and questions of leadership. Finally, the course discusses social
psychological questions about (3) intergroup relations, intergroup conflict and conflict
resolution. The topics are introduced by offering an overview of social psychological research
in these particular interpersonal, group level and intergroup topics, discussing classical
theories as well as the newest developments in the field. Broader societal implications and
applied aspects of the topics are discussed. During the practical classes the topics of the
lectures are covered in a practical manner with opportunities for gaining first hand personal
experiences, allowing students to become more familiar with the topics of the lectures.
Learning outcome, competences
knowledge:
- Knowledge of basic principles, important experiments, and research fields in the areas of interpersonal attraction, helping behavior, interdependence, group processes, social identity, social norms, and intergroup relations
- Ability to connect the above listed concepts to the basic motivational and cognitive processes described by social psychology
- Knowledge of the related methodological questions
attitude:
- Openness to social psychological interpretations of various psychological issues
- Sensitive to social psychological interpretations of social and societal phenomena
skills:
- Ability to apply social psychological knowledge to various real life situations
- Acquire a comprehensive understanding of social influence on behavior and mental processes
- Knowledge and application of methodological questions related to the above listed issues
Topics of the course
1. Attraction, liking, loving and sexuality
2. Helping and co-operation
3. Interpersonal aggression
4. Interdependence, and social dilemmas
5. Group development, group performance and leadership
6. Group norms, conformity, groupthink
7. Minority influence and the dynamics of change
8. Social identity and intergroup relations
9. Negative group membership
10. Social norms
11. Obedience and resistance
12. Intergroup conflict and prejudice
Compulsory reading list
Smith, E. R., Mackie, D. M., & Claypool, H. M. (2015) Social Psychology, New York: Psychology
Press
Recommended reading list
Hewstone, M. E., Stroebe, W. E., & Stephenson, G. M. E. (1996). Introduction to social psychology:
A European perspective. Blackwell Publishing.