PSY3151

Contemporary social psychology

(SCI)

Offered subject to final approval

Assoc Prof Chris Fraser and Dr Stephen Brown

6 points + Two 1-hour lectures per week and one 2-hour laboratory per fortnight + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: PSY2011 and PSY2022

Synopsis: This subject presents contemporary theories and methods in social psychology. A social cognitive perspective is used to examine issues such as evolutionary social psychology, self-concepts, attitudes, counterfactual thinking, self-deception and group behaviour. Particular emphasis is placed upon the application of social psychological theories to issues such as psychological health, social problems such as racism, political processes, advertising and health promotion.

Assessment: Critical appraisal of current literature on self-selected topic (2000 words): 35% + Development of a proposal for a future research study (2000 words): 35% + Multiple choice examination (2 hours): 30%