Abstract
In an increasingly online world, the amount of information about human interaction may feel chaotic or unpredictable, but through the lens of social psychology it is possible to make sense of how and why people behave the way they do. With a robust research methods section, including a clear discussion of the events leading to the replication crisis and birth of the open science movement, social psychology is explored primarily as an experimental science. Using a balance of research studies and real-world examples this text helps students to see how social psychology can be applies well beyond the lab.
Learning about social identity, social cognition, and attitudes can help us understand how our own perceptions shape our world views. Turning our attention to intergroup relations, group dynamics, relationships and pro-social behavior provides important insights into how situations shape our interactions with others. Aggression, prejudice, and discrimination research helps us find ways to use experimental finding to create evidence based social change. Ultimately, social psychology is ripe with opportunities to apply what we know about human interaction to increase fairness in our legal system, shape consumer behavior, take on climate change and lead healthy and fulfilling lives.