Social Psychology 

        In the field of psychology, social psychology is the scientific study of how the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individuals are influenced by the actual, imagined, and implied presence of others. In this definition, scientific refers to the empirical investigation using the scientific method, while the terms thoughts, feelings, and behaviors refer to the psychological variables that can be measured in humans. Moreover, the notion that the presence of others may be imagined or implied suggests that humans are malleable to social influences even when alone, such as when watching videos, quietly appreciating art, or even sitting on the toilet. In such situations, people can be influenced to follow internalized cultural norms.

DESCRIPTION & OBJECTIVES

• To review theory and research in social psychology and to apply its major principles to situations encountered in everyday life.
• To investigate dynamics of social interaction across various situation.
• To make students understand the influence of individual differences in social interactions

Learning Outcomes

• It will inculcate a sense of team spirit and group dynamics among the students.
• Students will be able to understand various modes of exercises (mental and physical) for ensuring an optimal morale.
• They will learn the role of psychologist in initiating and sustaining optimal motivation on and off ground.

CONTENTS

1. Introduction to the study of social psychology
2. Social psychology research methods
3. Introduction to social psychology
4. social perception
5. social cognition
6. Attitude & Behavior
7. Social influence
8. Group influence
9. Pro-social behavior
10. Aggression
11. Prejudice & Discrimination
12. Learning, Memory & Intelligence.

READINGS

• DeLamater, J. D., & Myers, D. J. (2011). Social Psychology (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
• Weiten, W. (2007). Psychology: Themes and variations: Themes and variations. Cengage Learning.
• Dickerson, P. (2012). Social Psychology: Traditional and Critical Perspectives. Harlow, UK: Pearson. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Sessional:                               20  

Quiz                                         5

Presentation                           10

Assignment                             5           

Final exam:                             50

Midterm:                                 30