Class Notes PSYC250 - Social Psychology

1. Introduction to Social Psychology Definition, nature, and scope Methods used in social psychology Relationship with other disciplines 2. Social Cognition and Perception How we perceive others Attribution theory (Heider, Kelley) Biases in attribution (e.g., Fundamental Attribution Error) 3. Attitudes and Attitude Change Components of attitudes: cognitive, affective, behavioural Theories: Cognitive Dissonance (Festinger), Elaboration Likelihood Model Persuasion techniques 4. Social Influence Conformity (Asch's experiments) Obedience (Milgram study) Compliance techniques (Foot-in-the-door, Door-in-the-face) 5. Prejudice and Discrimination Causes and consequences Stereotypes, scapegoating, social learning Reducing prejudice (intergroup contact, education) 6. Aggression Biological and social causes Theories: Frustration-Aggression, Social Learning (Bandura) Media influence and aggression control 7. Prosocial Behaviour Altruism, empathy, and helping behaviour Bystander effect and diffusion of responsibility Factors influencing helping 8. Interpersonal Attraction and Relationships Factors: similarity, proximity, physical attractiveness Theories: Social Exchange, Equity Love styles and relationship development 9. Group Processes Types of groups Groupthink, group polarization Leadership styles and decision-making in groups 10. Self and Social Identity Self-concept, self-esteem Social identity theory (Tajfel) Role of culture in self-perception