Course Description: This course will investigate social psychology's scientific study of the question, "Who am I?" The course addresses the ways in which we come to know and understand ourselves, as well as our biases processing information about ourselves compared to other people. Also covered are the content, structure, organization, and function of the self, including the self-concept, self-esteem, self-control, self-regulation and self-efficacy. An important part of the class is a consideration of the ways in which our membership in social groups (race, gender, religion etc) relates to these processes and our sense of self.
Course Objectives:
· Explore and interpret various identity construction models
· Apply symbolic interaction theory to conceptions of identity
· Analyze influences of identity via a heuristic process
Instructor Course Statement/Quote: Self exploration and determining one’s own identity is one of the most challenging and liberating experiences imaginable!
Required Text
APA Publication Manual 7th edition. ISBN#978-1-4338-3216-1
Optional Text(s):
Burke, P. J. & Stets, J. E. (2009). Identity theory. Oxford University Press: New York ISBN #978-0-19-538828-2
Ashmore, R. D. & Jussim, L. (Eds). Self and identity: Fundamental Issues. Oxford University Press: New York. ISBN #0-19-509827-7
- Teacher: James Maiden