Ever wonder why people do what they do? This course—which includes more than $1,000 of video and reading materials—offers some answers based on the latest research from social psychology. Students taking the course for a Certificate will also receive free membership in Social Psychology Network (SocialPsychology.org).
(4,946 reviews)
Skills you'll gain
- Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties
- Personal Attributes
- Behavioral Economics
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Personal Development
- Emotional Intelligence
- Psychology
- Intercultural Competence
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Social Sciences
- Relationship Building
- Diversity Awareness
- Economics
- Sociology
- Cultural Responsiveness
- Organizational Leadership
- Clinical Psychology
- Social Skills
- People Management
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There are 7 modules in this course
This week's goals are to: (1) learn what social psychology is and why it's worth studying; (2) take a "snapshot" of your thinking at the start of the course; (3) see how perceptions of reality are psychologically constructed; and (4) witness the shocking speed at which social judgments are made.
What's included
9 videos14 readings3 assignments
This week's goals are to: (1) learn how people explain their behavior and the behavior of others; (2) explore the link between attitudes and behavior; (3) understand what cognitive dissonance is and why it matters; and (4) gain some practical tips from the science of persuasion and social influence.
What's included
9 videos12 readings1 peer review
This week's goals are to: (1) understand the psychological dynamics of obedience to authority; (2) review studies on group pressure and conformity; (3) learn about the dark side of deindividuation; and (4) consider ethical issues related to psychology research.
What's included
10 videos11 readings1 peer review
This week's goals are to: (1) examine behavioral dynamics within and between groups; (2) see what happens when people fall prey to the Abilene Paradox; (3) read about social loafing, groupthink, and group polarization; and (4) learn effective ways to reduce prejudice and discrimination in daily life.
What's included
7 videos8 readings1 peer review
This week offers a chance to catch up on any course material that you've missed. There are no required videos or readings, but for those of you whose week wouldn't be complete without a little social psychology, please enjoy the optional materials in Week 5!
What's included
2 videos4 readings
This week's goals are to: (1) look at the factors that influence whether people will help one another; (2) examine the roots of aggression, violence, and terrorism; (3) learn psychological techniques to promote peace and sustainable living; and (4) carry out a personal experiment in which you spend 24 hours living as compassionately as possible.
What's included
7 videos13 readings1 assignment1 peer review
This week's goals are to: (1) consider whether empathy is a "magic bullet" for addressing social problems; (2) learn what the most important ingredients are for a happy life; (3) find out what researchers have discovered about romantic attraction and close relationships; and (4) hear about additional resources and organizations if you want to continue studying social psychology.
What's included
7 videos7 readings1 assignment
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Reviewed on Mar 30, 2021
I believe that every student needs to take this course regardless of the student's major. I thank God that I took the course. I am grateful for the financial aid that enabled me to take the course.
Reviewed on Nov 23, 2020
This course has been very rewarding for me. It made me gain a lot more confident and positive in my everyday life. Also Mr. Scott has been a very good and amazing lecturer, so thank you for that.
Reviewed on Aug 15, 2020
Professor Plous made me understand the lessons because he explained well all the lessons, and he provided enough information about the Social Psychology. More power to Coursera and Professor Plous :)
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