Social Psychology

Prerequisite: PSYC 201 with a minimum grade of "C"; and PSYC 204 with a minimum grade of "C" or PSYC 320 with a minimum grade of "C"; and PSYC 230; or consent of instructor Social psychology scientifically investigates the powerful social forces that influence our own and others' thoughts, feelings and behavior. This class will survey the scientific theory and research in the major topic areas of social psychology, which include processes that influence and are influenced by our interactions with others (e.g., attitude formation and change, conformity and persuasion), as well as the sources of benevolent (e.g., altruism) and malevolent (e.g., aggression, prejudice) aspects of human behavior. Throughout the course, we will consider both micro-level influences (e.g., personality, immediate social surroundings) as well as macro-level influences (e.g., culture, race, gender). Offered fall, spring, summer.