Week 6: Personality & Social Psychology

Week 6...

For me, these to sections provide such interesting discussions: What elements come together to create us? How do we interact and how do those interactions create us? Social psychology is the research into how groups work and how individuals work within those groups. In questions of war, why do some protest? Some fight back? Some lay down? In addition, we are not "created" in a vacuum and as such, how do those outside influences (family, peers, friends) shape us?

In terms of Personality, the research is challenging. We tend to want to answer surveys or research questions that put us in the best of lights. How can personality research be truth when our unconscious comes into play. As you go through the topics, the most important element is that understanding ourselves and how we interact with others. And sometimes? We may not want to know! :)

In stepping forward, social psychology is that area in which behaviors of groups and behaviors of individuals in groups is studied. Think back to middle school: What did we do to survive this tumultuous times? Many of us formed groups or packs. Many of us picked on others. As you consider the elements of social psychology, work to find examples from your own experiences. Consider the workplace, in-person classes, online classes, families. How do we change in certain situations? 

Below are videos of two of the most discussed and debated experiments in psychology. It is intriguing to understand the forces behind such actions. 

Videos:

Directions for Textbook:

  1. Read this week's chapters.
  2. Take notes over the research methods used for the psychology areas. 
    1. Cornell notes are useful and here is a template: Cornell Notes template. Links to an external site.
  3. Using the knowledge you have gained with the reading, the week's project will ask you to apply your knowledge gained. 
    1. Please note that not all chapters/weeks will have a project.
    2. Please know that this information will be scaffolded throughout the course.

 

Directions for Discussion Forum (None this week):

  1. Please post according to directions:  
  2. Be honest and considerate throughout all discussion forums.
  3. Due dates:
    1. Initial posting: 
    2. Responses to peers: 
    3. Please remember to return to the forum to read responses to you!

Assessments: