UCSSCPSY217.5 ECTSEnglishBachelor
Social Psychology
Faculteit—
NiveauBachelor
Studiejaar2026-2027
Beschrijving
Course goals
- Gain understanding of the content of social psychology: research done, theories developed
- Contextualize this content in a scientific and social history of the discipline
- Critically evaluate the classic studies in the field
- Train the formulation of adequate social psychological research questions and methods
- Carry out a social psychological research project
- Exams: 1, 2
- Classics assignment: 2, 3, 4
- Research Project: 4, 5
- Class participation: 1, 2, 3, 4
Content
Why do people conform to group norms? How do stereotypes shape our perceptions and interactions? What drives persuasion and influence? And how do we define who we are in relation to others? This course in Social Psychology explores the fascinating ways individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts.
With a strong emphasis on critical thinking and research, students will examine classic and contemporary studies to understand the mechanisms behind social influence, attitudes, identity, prejudice, group dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. Through case studies, experiments, and discussions, you will not only learn about human behavior and cognition but also develop analytical skills essential for evaluating psychological research and real-world social issues. Additionally, this course serves as a foundation for our level 3 psychology courses, equipping students with key skills to handle the coursework in our advanced courses.
As part of a liberal arts and sciences education, this course is invaluable for students across disciplines. Whether you're studying political science, philosophy, public health, environmental studies, or the natural sciences, understanding social psychology will help you interpret human behavior, assess evidence critically, and apply psychological principles to diverse fields. The skills gained here are essential for anyone interested in leadership, policy-making, education, law, or any career requiring insight into human motivation and social interaction.
Join us to uncover the hidden forces shaping social life and sharpen your ability to think critically about the world around you!
Format
There are two meetings each week, for 15 weeks. In the first two weeks of the course, we lay the foundations for your understanding, focusing on methodology, ethics, and challenges to our field of research. From the 3rd week onwards, the first session of the week focuses on the topic of the week, and the second session is focused on the research project and additional topics such as the famous Milgram study. Students are expected to complete the weekly readings and actively participate in the class discussions.
With a strong emphasis on critical thinking and research, students will examine classic and contemporary studies to understand the mechanisms behind social influence, attitudes, identity, prejudice, group dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. Through case studies, experiments, and discussions, you will not only learn about human behavior and cognition but also develop analytical skills essential for evaluating psychological research and real-world social issues. Additionally, this course serves as a foundation for our level 3 psychology courses, equipping students with key skills to handle the coursework in our advanced courses.
As part of a liberal arts and sciences education, this course is invaluable for students across disciplines. Whether you're studying political science, philosophy, public health, environmental studies, or the natural sciences, understanding social psychology will help you interpret human behavior, assess evidence critically, and apply psychological principles to diverse fields. The skills gained here are essential for anyone interested in leadership, policy-making, education, law, or any career requiring insight into human motivation and social interaction.
Join us to uncover the hidden forces shaping social life and sharpen your ability to think critically about the world around you!
Format
There are two meetings each week, for 15 weeks. In the first two weeks of the course, we lay the foundations for your understanding, focusing on methodology, ethics, and challenges to our field of research. From the 3rd week onwards, the first session of the week focuses on the topic of the week, and the second session is focused on the research project and additional topics such as the famous Milgram study. Students are expected to complete the weekly readings and actively participate in the class discussions.
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