Social Psychology

Social Psychology: Traditional and Critical Perspectives addresses the key issues in social psychology -- such as prejudice, aggression, conformity, persuasion, attraction, relationships and prosocial behaviour -- in a bold and innovative way. As well as providing detailed coverage of classic and contemporary 'mainstream' research, this book engages with 'critical' literature -- bringing to the textbook the sort of debates that can be found in social psychology conferences, journals and specialist texts. In addition, the book goes beyond simply describing research findings -- it critically evaluates the research it covers, supporting your own critical engagement with the literature. "This is a ground breaking text and an important marker in the history of social psychology" - Ken Gergen, Swarthmore College, USA "This is no ordinary textbook: Dickerson brings a fresh and critical reading of social psychology's central topics by placing readers in the box seat of both classic and new research in the discipline. Instead of the conventional and 'potted' versions of classic experiments that have come to define social psychology, Dickerson brings them to life by providing nuanced detail much of which has been lost or forgotten over the years. The reader is provided with a sense of 'being there' in the experimental moment, an invaluable learning resource for students. This is thoughtfully contrasted to critical and discursive approaches that challenge taken-for-granted concepts and methods." - Professor Martha Augoustinos, University of Adelaide1. Introduction 2. Self and Identity 3. Attraction and Relationships 4. Attribution 5. Explanatory Talk 6. Attitude change and Persuasion 7. Stereotypes and Prejudice 8. Pro-social Behaviour 9. Aggression and Intergroup Conflict 10. Social Influence and Intragroup Processes 11. Communication and Interaction