PG830: SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY (4) Tyler S. Greenway, Ph.D.

DESCRIPTION:

This course provides an overview of the major theories, issues, data, and research methodologies in social psychology. Topics covered will include: social cognition, group processes, leadership, conformity, persuasion, dyadic processes in close relationships, romantic relationships, prosocial and antisocial behavior, and prejudice, stereotyping, and stigma. Applications of social psychological research to clinical practice will be highlighted.  

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Provide an understanding of the methods, theories, and major research findings of social psychology.

2. Engage students in critical analysis of social psychology research and theory.

3. Engage students in application of social psychology research to clinical and therapeutic contexts.

RELATIONSHIP TO SCHOOL AND SEMINARY LEARNING OUTCOMES:

     Relevant SOP Learning Outcomes:

1. Graduates, in their scholarly and clinical work will be equipped to apply the insights of Christian theology along with the knowledge and techniques of the social and behavioral sciences.

2. Graduates of the clinical psychology program will have solid grounding in the literature of general psychology.

3. Graduates of the clinical psychology program will have competence utilizing, critiquing, and conducting psychological research.

4. Graduates of the clinical psychology program will demonstrate the articulation of, and personal commitment to, and informed Christian theological perspective regarding general psychology, research, clinical practice, and diversity issues.

     Relevant FTS Learning Outcomes:

1. Graduates will be aware of and critically engage ecclesial, societal, and global issues from Christian theological perspectives and demonstrate the ability to make informed choices toward positive change.

2. Graduates will be able to pursue careers consistent with their education.

COURSE FORMAT:

This course will meet asynchronously online and includes 10 weekly modules comprised of lectures, readings, and discussions. Students are expected to interact online multiple times throughout each module (e.g., 2-3 times each week). Class discussion will facilitate course objectives. All assignments must be completed to pass the course and consistent interaction online is required.

REQUIRED READINGS:

Finkel, E. J. & Baumeister, R. F. (2019). Advanced social psychology: The state of the science. New York, NY: Oxford University Press. $106.00 ISBN 978-0190635596

Maddux, J. E., & Tangney, J. P. (2011). Social psychological foundations of clinical psychology. New York, NY: Guilford Press. $75.00 ISBN 978-1606236796

Course Reader

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

1.     Online lectures [20 hours]

2.     Required readings and quizzes (15%) [60 hours]

3.     Online responses and discussions (25%). [20 hours].

4.     Four 750-word personal reaction papers responding to reading (30%). [These assignments are related to learning outcomes 1, 2, and 3] [25 hours].

5.     Major paper (approximately 3,000 words) in lieu of a final exam (30%). [This assignment is related to learning outcomes #1, 2, and 3] [35 hours].

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:  Required course.

FINAL EXAMINATION:  None.