PSY455 Developmental and Social Psychology (8)

This subject examines developmental and social psychology. Developmental Psychology examines human development across the life-span. Descriptions, explanations, and predictions of developmental stages/changes are covered through an investigation of major theories and research findings. Practical implications and applications of this material are considered, with some topical current issues.

Social Psychology examines the influence of society, groups, and interpersonal relationships on the individual, and their location within society. This includes theoretical/empirical examination of  how we perceive others, social influences on the individual  and  interpersonal relationships ranging from attraction/love to aggression/hate.

The relevancy of dominant developmental and social psychological theories for Indigenous Australians are also considered.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
Bathurst Campus
Session 3 (90)
Online
Bathurst Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PSY455. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Psychology

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is only available for students in the Graduate Diploma of Psychology.

Assumed Knowledge

PSY101 and PSY102

Subject Relationships

PSY221 Paired Subject

Incompatible Subjects

PSY113, PSY216, PSY452, PSY453

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to understand research methods and analyses of data commonly used in the study of developmental and social psychology;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding that human development across the lifespan results from an interaction of changes in biological, cognitive, and social processes;
  • be able to apply major theories of developmental and social psychology, and an awareness of their applications in everyday life;
  • be able to understand key research findings within developmental and social psychology;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of social psychology's fundamental issues and controversies;
  • be able to critically evaluate previous research and theoretical positions in developmental and social psychology via assessment; and
  • be able to evaluate whether western conceptualisations of developmental and social psychology are universal or culturally specific, with a specific focus on First Nations Australians.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Overview of the study of human development
  • Research methods applicable to the study of developmental and social psychology
  • Overview of major theories of human development and social psychology
  • The influence on human development of genetics, heredity, and the environment
  • Major aspects of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development
  • Overview of the history of social psychology and future directions
  • Social perception including perceiving others and self
  • Social influence including attitudes, conformity and groups
  • Social relations including attraction and helping behaviour
  • Cross-cultural considerations for developmental and social psychological theories

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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