This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module introduces you to the major orientations and discoveries in the social psychology of group processes. The material covers both behaviour within groups (e.g. group structure, social influence, leadership, and group performance) and behaviour between groups (e.g. intergroup conflict and co-operation, social categorisation and social identity, and prejudice and its reduction). We analyse the basic mechanisms in groups that occupy the same position in the social structure in terms of power, status, and group size, as well as mechanisms that characterize asymmetric groups. There is a strong emphasis on social psychological theory being examined by systematic empirical research. Teaching is by lectures and seminars with additional practical demonstrations from time to time.
Total contact hours: 25
Private study hours: 125
Total study hours: 150
Not available as an elective module. Not available to short-term credit students.
Essay 2,000 words 40%
Examination 2 hours 60%
Reassessment methods
Like for Like.
Sutton, R. M., & Douglas, K. M. Social psychology. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Describe how group membership affects self-perception, the perception of others, and the ways individuals behave
8.2 Understand the basic cognitive, affective and behavioural mechanisms that lead to these outcomes
8.3 Understand how intra-group and inter-group structure affects social perception and behaviour
8.4 Provide evidence from empirical tests of the theories and models discussed
8.5 Link theory and research in the social psychology of group processes to current issues in society
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