The course is divided into four modules.
In the first module, the constructs and epistemological distinctions
underlying the discipline and their historical development will be
introduced. The main theoretical orientations and the most widespread
methodological paradigms will be presented. Finally, the most relevant
thematic areas will be discussed, such as social cognition, impression
formation and interpersonal perception, relational and communicative
processes, pro and anti social behavior, social regulation of emotions and
fundamental intra and intergroup phenomena.
The second module will be focused on the processes of social influence,
on the cognitive and affective processes through which it acts and on the
main manner in which the social influence operates. The differentiations
between the social influence of a majority source and a minority source
will be deepened.
The third module will focus on the phenomenon of stereotypes and
prejudice. Starting from the social categorization processes and their
functionality, the basic processes of origins, automation, activation,
maintenance and change of stereotypes will be illustrated. The main
theoretical models about the origins and the reduction of prejudice will be
discussed.
The forth module aims to expand knowledge regarding the application of psychology in the legal field.