PSYC 3621 - Social Psychology II

Course Description

This course aims to expand students' knowledge of human behaviour and thought in social context. Topics include self-concept, self-esteem, and gender identity - the elements of social identity; conformity, compliance, and obedience - processes that influence social behaviour; altruism; causes and control of aggression; and group performance, including group decision-making and leadership. Before completion of the course, students examine applications of social psychology principles in six areas: population control, health promotion, the environment, law, politics, and the workplace.

Learning outcomes

• Discuss the multiple aspects of self and gender as components of personal identity and how they may influence behaviour.
• Explain the processes of social influence, including conformity, compliance, and obedience.
• Describe the conditions under which people will, or will not, provide help to others.
• Discuss the causes and control of aggression.
• Discuss the processes of group performance, including group decision-making and leadership.
• Describe applications of social psychology to several real-life problems.

Course topics

• Unit 1: Social Identity
• Unit 2: Social Influence
• Unit 3: Prosocial Behaviour
• Unit 4: Aggression
• Unit 5: Groups and Individuals
• Unit 6: Dealing with Adversity and Achieving a Happy Life

Required text and materials

The following textbooks would have been purchased in PSYC 3611. Students who did not take PSYC 3611 and/or don't already own the required textbooks, will need to purchase it. 

• Aronson, J., & Aronson, E. (Eds.). (2020). Readings about the social animal (12th ed.). New York, NY: Worth Publishers.
  Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-1-4641-7872-6

The following e-textbook can be purchased directly from Campus eBookstore via: Wolfie's Campus Bookstore

• Baron, R. A., & Branscombe, N. R. (2017). Revel for Social psychology + Access Card. (14th ed.). New York: Pearson.
  Type: e-Text. ISBN: 9780134625386

Assessments

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 3611

Recommended requisite(s)

• PSYC 2111