This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module introduces you to the major theories and research in the social psychology of interpersonal behaviour. The emphasis throughout is on social cognition, and three main areas will be considered: social cognition and the self, attitudes (including attitude-behaviour relations, attitude change and persuasion), and interpersonal relationships. There will be a strong emphasis on social psychological theory and systematic empirical research in both field and laboratory settings.
Total contact hours: 25
Private study hours: 125
Total study hours: 150
Compulsory to :
BSc in Psychology with a Placement Year
BSc in Psychology with Clinical Psychology and a Placement Year
BSc in Psychology
BSc in Psychology with Clinical Psychology
BSc in Psychology with Forensic Psychology
BSc in Psychology with a year abroad
BSc in Social Psychology
BSc in Psychology and Social Anthropology
BSc in Business Psychology
BSc in Business Psychology and a Placement Year
Essay 2,000 words 40%
Examination 2 hours 60%
Reassessment methods: Like for like.
Reading list (Indicative list, current at time of publication. Reading lists will be published annually)
Baumeister, R. F., & Bushman, B. J. (2008), Social Psychology and Human Nature, Thomson Wadsworth, International ed, paperback
Leary, M. R. (2004). The curse of the self: Self-awareness, egotism, and the quality of human life. New York: Oxford University Press.
Bohner, G., & Wänke ,M. (2002). Attitudes and attitude change. Hove, England: Taylor and Francis.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of theories and research in social cognition, attitudes, and close relationships
8.2 Critically evaluate said concepts, theories and findings
8.3 Manage their own learning, and to make use of psychological research articles in social cognition, attitudes, and close relationships
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Demonstrate literacy, numeracy and writing skills to present, interpret and discuss concepts, theories, and findings based on the use of the relevant literature
9.2 Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the diversity of theoretical and empirical approaches in psychology
9.3 Critically evaluate the quality of theories, methods and findings in published research
9.4 Express well-founded opinions, argue rationally, develop new perspectives and engage in critical thinking both orally and in written form
9.5 Demonstrate time management and organisation
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