Class will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:10 to 11:50 am in Stevenson 3040.

Click here to read the NYT piece on emotional intelligence training.

Course Description:

This course offers a broad introduction to social psychology. We will explore the various ways in which people think about, influence and relate to one another. We also will consider how the immediate social situation shapes people's behavior and attitudes. The course includes topics such as conformity and obedience, attitudes and attitude change, social perception, aggression, prejudice, attraction, love and altruism. In each topic area, we will examine social-psychological theory and research and consider what this discipline can teach us about human behavior and our social world.

Course Objectives:

• Learn key principles and concepts in social psychology.
• Learn how social psychologists do what they do.
• Apply social psychological principles and concepts to your own experience.
  

As a GE D1 course (Individual and Society), this course also is designed to contribute to the following SSU General Education learning objectives:

• Demonstrate understanding of how cultural diversity and social factors influence the individual, society, and social institutions.
• Demonstrate understanding of the interchange among individuals and social systems and institutions, and how these develop.
• Apply social science perspectives to social issues and problems as manifested in individuals, groups, societies, and/or internationally.
• Demonstrate understanding of the factors influencing inequality and social justice among individuals, groups, societies, and/or across nations.
  

Course Text:
Aronson, E., Wilson, T.D. & Akert, R.M. (2010). Social Psychology. Pearson/Prentice Hall: Upper Saddle River, New Jersey.

Other resources:

• University Policies:  http://www.sonoma.edu/uaffairs/policies/studentinfo.shtml
• Disability Services for Students (DSS): http://www.sonoma.edu/dss/ (Salazar 1049)
• Writing Center Resource: Free consultation; http://www.sonoma.edu/programs/writingcenter/ (Schulz 1103)
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): http://www.sonoma.edu/counselingctr/ (Stevenson 1088)

Heather Smith, Ph.D.
Psychology Department
Stevenson 3089
664-2587
smithh@sonoma.edu

Course Assignments:
Course Project 1
Course Project 2
Course Project 3
Course Project 4
Implicit prejudice reflection assignment