Social Psychology

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-psychology

Introduction

**Course Recommendation: Social Psychology on Coursera** **Introduction** Have you ever found yourself wondering why people behave in certain ways? What drives our thoughts, actions, likes, and dislikes? If you’re intrigued by human behavior and societal dynamics, I highly recommend the "Social Psychology" course available on Coursera. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of social psychology, offering both theoretical insights and practical applications drawn from the latest research in the field. **Course Overview** "Social Psychology," taught by Professor David Plous, stands out with its engaging curriculum designed to help students understand the intricacies of human behavior. The course boasts over $1,000 worth of video and reading materials, ensuring a rich learning experience. Moreover, students who opt for the certificate track will receive complimentary membership in the Social Psychology Network (SocialPsychology.org), further enriching their educational journey and access to valuable resources in the field. **Course Structure and Syllabus** The course is divided into seven weeks, each focusing on different aspects of social psychology: - **Week 1: Social Perceptions and Misperceptions** This week introduces the fundamentals of social psychology, focusing on how our perceptions of reality are shaped. Students will learn about the rapid nature of social judgments and the psychological constructs behind them—an essential foundation for understanding the rest of the course. - **Week 2: The Psychology of Self-Presentation and Persuasion** Delving deeper into human behavior, this week highlights the reasons behind how we explain our actions and the influence of attitudes on behavior. The concept of cognitive dissonance is explored, along with practical tips based on persuasion science, making this week especially valuable for those interested in communication and influence. - **Week 3: Obedience, Conformity, and Deindividuation** Understanding obedience to authority and the impact of group pressure are the focuses of this week. Students will scrutinize classic studies on conformity and deindividuation while considering the ethical implications of psychological research—fostering a critical mindset that's crucial in social psychology. - **Week 4: Group Behavior: The Good, Bad, and Ugly** This week examines the dynamics of group behavior, analyzing concepts like the Abilene Paradox, social loafing, and groupthink. Students will not only learn about these phenomena but also discover strategies to counter prejudice and discrimination, thus equipping them with tools to foster more inclusive environments. - **Week 5: Mid-Course Break** This week offers a breather, allowing students to catch up on course materials. It serves as an opportunity for reflection and consolidation of knowledge learned in the first half of the course. - **Week 6: Helping, Hurting, and Peacemaking** In this pivotal week, students will explore the psychological factors influencing helping behavior, the roots of aggression, and techniques for promoting peace. A unique personal experiment encourages students to engage in compassionate living for 24 hours, promoting experiential learning. - **Week 7: A Happy End to the Course** The concluding week addresses the role of empathy in solving social issues and the foundations of a happy life. Insights into romantic attraction and close relationships are also shared, along with resources for continued learning in the realm of social psychology. **Why You Should Take This Course** This course is an invaluable opportunity for anyone interested in the forces that shape human interactions. It provides not only theoretical knowledge but also practical insights you can apply to everyday life, enhancing your understanding of relationships, group dynamics, and societal challenges. The course’s structured format, combined with the depth of content, makes it suitable for both beginners and those with prior knowledge of psychology. Furthermore, the course promotes critical thinking, encouraging you to question and analyze social phenomena rather than simply accept them. The diverse topics covered ensure a well-rounded comprehension of social psychology, making it beneficial for students, professionals, and anyone curious about the motivations behind human behavior. In summary, if you’re eager to delve into the complexities of social interactions and gain a deeper understanding of the human psyche, the "Social Psychology" course on Coursera is a fantastic choice. With top-notch content, flexibility for self-paced learning, and a supportive online community, this course is a perfect stepping stone for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and application of social psychology. Sign up today and embark on a transformative educational journey!

Syllabus

WEEK 1: Social Perceptions and Misperceptions

This week's goals are to: (1) learn what social psychology is and why it's worth studying; (2) take a "snapshot" of your thinking at the start of the course; (3) see how perceptions of reality are psychologically constructed; and (4) witness the shocking speed at which social judgments are made.

This week's goals are to: (1) learn how people explain their behavior and the behavior of others; (2) explore the link between attitudes and behavior; (3) understand what cognitive dissonance is and why it matters; and (4) gain some practical tips from the science of persuasion and social influence.

This week's goals are to: (1) understand the psychological dynamics of obedience to authority; (2) review studies on group pressure and conformity; (3) learn about the dark side of deindividuation; and (4) consider ethical issues related to psychology research.

This week's goals are to: (1) examine behavioral dynamics within and between groups; (2) see what happens when people fall prey to the Abilene Paradox; (3) read about social loafing, groupthink, and group polarization; and (4) learn effective ways to reduce prejudice and discrimination in daily life.

This week offers a chance to catch up on any course material that you've missed. There are no required videos or readings, but for those of you whose week wouldn't be complete without a little social psychology, please enjoy the optional materials in Week 5!

This week's goals are to: (1) look at the factors that influence whether people will help one another; (2) examine the roots of aggression, violence, and terrorism; (3) learn psychological techniques to promote peace and sustainable living; and (4) carry out a personal experiment in which you spend 24 hours living as compassionately as possible.

This week's goals are to: (1) consider whether empathy is a "magic bullet" for addressing social problems; (2) learn what the most important ingredients are for a happy life; (3) find out what researchers have discovered about romantic attraction and close relationships; and (4) hear about additional resources and organizations if you want to continue studying social psychology.