Theory, research, and applied aspects related to the psychology of psychological groups and social relations. Theoretical models and conceptualization of the human group entity and communities. Social norms, roles, status, social power, entitativity, and models of interdependence. Formation and conflicts in groups. Models of assessment and intervention.
The open-access course slides are the only reference text. Slides are derived from:
Forsyth, D. R. (2018). Group dynamics. Cengage Learning.
Learning Objectives
Acquire knowledge and understanding of the theories and empirical evidence presented in the lectures;
Develop the ability to apply and decline the knowledge acquired in everyday situations and intervention (classroom exercises);
Develop critical and judgment skills using the tools of group and community psychology (in-class discussion);
Ability to communicate what has been learned (through dedicated presentation moments);
Ability to continue the study independently and update through the use of dedicated search engines (e.g., Google Scholar) and consultation of scientific databases.
Prerequisites
Knowledge derived from passing the basic exams in Psychology
(at least: Social Psychology, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology).
Teaching Methods
The teaching method will rely on lectures to provide theoretical and empirical knowledge to develop the student's skills. These lectures will be interspersed with moments of comparison and discussion in the classroom aimed at stimulating the students' ability to judge and their ability to apply what they have learned to reality. The course will also make use of moments of "flipped classroom" in which students will exhibit what they have learned and deepened in the field of group and community psychology. Finally, the course will also adopt a gamified approach aimed at finding the right balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and therefore putting the learner in the best conditions to acquire the right mastery of the tools of group and community psychology in the most ergonomic way possible.
Further information
None
Type of Assessment
Oral examination.
The final grade will take into account - in addition to the oral exam - also the evaluation of the laboratory activities (for attending students).
Mark out of thirty (sufficient: 18/30).
Knowledge and understanding will be verified through the oral exam.
Applied knowledge and understanding, as well as independent judgment and communication skills, will be particularly considered during the gamified activities in the classroom as well as during the exams.
The ability to learn will be assessed as a whole through the interactions during the laboratory activities and the oral exam.
Course program
The teaching program includes the presentation and discussion of the following topics:
1- An introduction to the group dynamics (1)
2- An introduction to the group dynamics (2)
3- Studying Groups
4- Inclusion and Identity
5- Formation
6- Cohesion and Development
7- Structure
8- Influence
9- Power
10- Leadership
11- Performance
12- Decision Making
13- Teams
14- Conflict
15- Intergroup Relations
16- Groups in Context
17- Reputation dynamics
Sustainable Development Goals 2030
The course will support goal 10 of the 2030 Agenda, i.e., "Reduce inequality", stimulating students to develop solutions and proposals aimed at enhancing and promoting social inclusion, especially for minority and stigmatized groups. The course will support also objective 5 (i.e., gender equality), stimulating interest in a sex and gender fair approach to research and intervention.