Module code: PSY4010-B
This module will introduce the major psychological theories that explain how we become social beings. You will explore the basic concepts in lifespan development and social psychology. You will be introduced to different approaches to the understanding of human development at different stages of our lives and consider the contribution of these approaches to the nature/nurture debate. You will also explore traditional explanations for understanding our behaviour in a social world and traditional approaches to individual difference.
Models and stages of lifespan development from infancy to the end of the lifespan- Vygotskian and Piagetian approaches to development, attachment theory, theories of middle adolescence, middle and late adulthood. Theories and models of social psychology: pro and anti social behaviour, social cognition and social thinking, attitudes, attribution theory, inter/intragroup behaviour. Type and trait approaches to personality, Freudian ideas on personality development. Methodological and ethical issues in developmental and social psychology will be explored. The curriculum will make constant reference to the nature/nurture debate.
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