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PSYC 319 - Advanced Topics in Social Psychology

Topic for Fall 2014: Understanding and Improving Group Relations:

Intergroup conflict and violence continue to plague many parts of the world, and intergroup relations shape our daily lives and statuses within different social structures.
This advanced-level seminar will cover in-depth analyses of theories and principles about intergroup relations from various academic disciplines and intellectual approaches, with special attention given to the social/political psychology of conflict and to proposed strategies to reduce it. Topics will include historical and comparative reviews of research and theory, such as social identity, stereotypes, attitudes, social movements, power, and conflict reduction, as well as the application of these concepts to contemporary societal problems. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the concepts and tools necessary for the study of intergroup relations, and to use these tools to explain the status of marginalized and disadvantaged groups, as well as the role of privilege and power. In this class, we will discuss current, past, and ongoing real-world cases that are relevant to the class’s interests (through film and student presentations), review and critique existing literature on the topic, and explore alternative explanations and solutions to intergroup relations (through simulations and theoretical analyses). This course may be repeatable for credit.

Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically

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