Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit 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.

Objectives

On the completion of this unit students will:

1. understand recent theoretical advances in social cognition research, and how these might contribute to addressing social problems;

2. develop skills in the critical evaluation of social psychological theories, and the types of research designs that can be used to test social psychological hypothesis; and

3. be able to apply these skills in developing an individual research topic.

Assessment

Multiple choice exam (2 hours): 50%
Critical appraisal of current theoretical and research literature (2000 words): 25%
Laboratory report on data collected in class (2000 words): 25%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Felicity Allen

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures per week and one 2-hour laboratory per fortnight

Prerequisites

PSY2022 or PSY2042

Prohibitions

PSY3151