What is Social Psychology?

Question 1

Definition of Social Psychology

Answer 1

The scientific study of the way in which people’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors are influenced by the real and/or imagined presences of other people

Question 2

Real or imagined presence of others

Answer 2

-People can intentionally influence us (Telling us what they want)
-The mere presence of people can be influential
(Ex: A parents or teachers presence can make someone act more mannered and such)
-Simply thinking of people can be influential

Question 3

Strong social situations

Answer 3

A situation where people behave the same way (ex: in class)

Question 4

Weak social situations

Answer 4

A situation in which most people behave in different ways (ex: on a playground)

Question 5

Why do we study social psychology?

Answer 5

1. Curiosity: It explains things in our life that are interesting
2. To Inform Action: We want to understand how to best deal
   with social problems
   -Promote health and happiness
   -Decrease discrimination and violence
   -Increase positive behaviors
   -Policy and legal theory
   -Business practice

Question 6

What level does social psychology focus on?

Answer 6

-Social psychology focuses on the psychology of individuals in their social worlds
-Understanding of human behavior requires attention to both, the situation (social psych) and a person’s personality (personality psych)