| Description: | This course is about the study of human social behavior, examining theories, findings and methods of social psychology, viewed from an interpersonal perspective. What is the essential nature of our personality, and what impact do social groups (whether that group is the family, school, or society) have on our development and everyday behavior? Topics include: social cognition, the role of others in shaping self-concepts, as well as the formation of person perception, attitudes, attribution theory, obedience, conformity, interpersonal attraction, and social relations. We will look at the causes and methods of reducing prejudice and aggression, as well as exploring altruism, the development of gender roles, stereotypes, non-verbal behavior, and social influence. Students will acquire a new framework for interpreting social behavior. Among the topics explored in the course are socialization, language acquisition, interpersonal behavior, and persuasion. Students will also have the opportunity to develop the ability to analyze their own and others' behavior. In addition, since this course is taught in Florence, Italy, it provides a natural opportunity to compare and contrast the influence of culture on individuals. Living even for a short period in another country helps you to see and understand the relationship between the individual (self) and society. |