PSY 251 - Social Psychology

1. Distinguish key concepts, principles, and major perspectives in social psychology.
   1. Describe the field of social psychology and its position related to other fields of psychology and social sciences.
   2. Describe social cognition, its concepts and theories, including attributions, the self, social beliefs, and attitudes.
   3. Describe social influence, its concepts and theories, including conformity, obedience, persuasion, and group dynamics.
   4. Describe social relations, its concepts and theories, including prejudice, stereotypes, aggression, attraction, prosocial behaviors, and conflict.
2. Use scientific reasoning to examine social psychological phenomena.
   1. Demonstrate understanding of how social psychologists use the scientific approach to develop and test theories.
   2. Describe foundational and contemporary research in social psychology.
   3. Use social psychological concepts and critical thinking to explain human experiences.
3. Use social psychological concepts to strengthen personal and professional relationships, and build community.
   1. Describe the effects of stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination. 
   2. Give examples of social psychology-related issues of global concern, including poverty, health, migration, human rights, international conflict, and social justice.
   3. Review the ways in which culture influences social thought and behavior.
   4. Explain how social psychology can promote civic, social, and global outcomes that benefit others.
4. Apply ethical standards to evaluate social psychological science and practice.
   1. Review violations of ethical standards in social psychological contexts. 
   2. Identify problems that may occur in forming beliefs and judgments.
   3. Identify ways to minimize interpersonal challenges that may result from diversity and context.
5. Develop competence in writing and/or verbal communication skills.
   1. State ideas in written formats that reflect basic social psychological concepts and principles. 
   2. Describe how cultural values and biases may produce misunderstandings in communication.
   3. Construct questions about social psychological content.
6. Apply social psychological content and skills to personal and career goals.
   1. Identify a range of possible factors that influence beliefs and conclusions.
   2. Demonstrate understanding of the value and application of scientific research and problem-solving skills in providing evidence beyond personal opinion to support proposed solutions. 
   3. Describe how social psychological content applies to business, health care, educational, and other workplace settings.