Theory provides the foundation for any area of scientific inquiry. Major psychological theories, which have guided the field of social psychology since its inception a little more than a century ago, will be presented, evaluated, and brought to bear on relevant contemporary issues. The socio-historical evolution of psychology will become apparent as the student observes that many of the areas of primary concern in social psychology are propagated by the changing social times. The theoretical diversity of social psychology will be exemplified as conflicting theories attempt to explain various aspects of social behavior. Overall, the student will receive a comprehensive overview of the major conceptual ideas in the field of social psychology and will be given the opportunity to challenge and discuss these ideas.
Research is a vital component of the scientific nature of social psychology.
Research provides the social psychologist with an invaluable implement for testing the propositions that claim to explain and predict human behavior. This course is designed to help the student master basic principles of research method and to enable the student to recognize the factors that threaten the internal and external validity of scientific research. In doing so, the student will be able to ascertain the viability of research used to advance theories which affect explanations, interpretations, and applications of human social behavior. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, social psychology involves the application of theoretical and empirical findings to interventions that improve the general quality of human experience. Students will be acquainted with how social psychological theory and research provide a better way of understanding and often dealing with life's complex problems.