Social Psychology

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Introduction

Social psychology is the study of behaviour and experience with respect to social stimuli. Social psychologists are particularly interested in the changes that occur in a person’s behaviour when other people are present. The diversity of topics lends itself to various methodological approaches and interpretations when attempting to understand the complexities of behaviour generated by social interaction.

Students studying this option begin by looking at the ways in which an individual is influenced by the presence of others. They then move on to examine the development of group behaviours and how group membership can influence individual behaviour. Finally, they study the impact of collective behaviour, both on the individual and on the group itself.

Objectives of the Unit:

Describe and evaluate relevant theories and empirical studies related to social psychology
Explain how cultural, ethical, gender, and methodological considerations affect the interpretation of behaviour in social psychology.
Describe and evaluate specific methodologies used in social psychology.
Describe and evaluate application of research findings and theories in social psychology.
Assess the extent to which social psychological findings and studies allow predictions to be made about individual and group behaviour.
Compare the behaviour of an individual in a group with that of an individual acting alone, and be able to assess the impact of these behaviours on our understanding of humans.