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In this course, you will learn:
- Discover what social psychology is and why it's worth learning.
- Take a "snapshot" of your thinking at the beginning of the course.
- examine how perceptions of reality are psychologically created;
- Consider the astounding quickness with which social judgments are made.(1) Understand how people justify their own and others' conduct;
- Investigate the relationship between attitudes and conduct;
- comprehend cognitive dissonance and its significance.
- Learn some useful tips from the science of persuasion and social impact.
- comprehend the psychological dynamics of submission to power;
- Examine research on group pressure and conformity;
- Understand the negative aspects of deindividuation; and
- Consider ethical difficulties in psychological research
- investigate the behavioral dynamics within and between groups.
- observe what occurs when people succumb to the Abilene Paradox;
- Read about social loafing, groupthink, and group polarization;
- Learn practical strategies for reducing prejudice and discrimination in daily life.
- Examine the factors that impact whether people will support one another.
- investigate the causes of aggressiveness, violence, and terrorism.
- Study psychological approaches to promote peace and sustainable life; and
- Conduct a personal experiment in which you spend 24 hours being as empathetic as possible.
- Think about whether empathy is a "magic bullet" for addressing societal problems.
- understand what are the most crucial factors for a happy existence.
- Learn what academics have revealed about romantic attraction and close partnerships; and
- Find out about further resources and organizations if you want to continue studying social psychology.
Syllabus:
WEEK 1: Social Perceptions and Misperceptions
WEEK 2: The Psychology of Self-Presentation and Persuasion
WEEK 3: Obedience, Conformity, and Deindividuation
WEEK 4: Group Behavior: The Good, Bad, and Ugly
WEEK 5: Mid-Course Break
WEEK 6: Helping, Hurting, and Peacemaking
