Time Schedule:
Stephen J Ross
TPSYCH 240
Tacoma Campus
Surveys the major areas of social psychology, the science of human behavior in social situations. Emphasizes an understanding of the important methods, terms, theories and findings in social psychology. Prerequisite: TPSYCH 100
Class description
This course will be a survey of the main topics of social psychology. Social psychology focuses on 1.) how individuals perceive themselves in relation to others (social perception), 2.) how the behavior of individuals is influenced by the social environment (social influence) and 3.) how individuals interact with others (social relation).
Student learning goals
Understand the definition of social psychology, and identify how social psychology differs from other fields of psychology and other social sciences.
Understand concepts related to how individuals develop and maintain perceptions of themselves AND others and how self-perception influences behavior.
Understand how attitudes are formed and the ways in which attitudes can be changed and measured.
Understand the processes involved in the formation and maintenance of close relationships.
Understand factors that influence how individuals relate to others including helping behaviors and aggression.
Understand how basic issues in social psychology can be applied to other areas including business & law.
General method of instruction
Classes will consist of lecture, discussion, in-class exercises, and videos to help you experience social psychology first-hand. In addition, out-of-class exercises will include discussion boards and essay writings.
Recommended preparation
Only prerequisite is TPSYCH 100 (or equivalent).
Class assignments and grading
Grading will be based on quizzes, discussion board posts, exams, and writing assignments.
Grades directly related to total # of points accumulated throughout the quarter. A grading rubric will be provided on the first day of class so students can keep track of their progress throughout the quarter.
