PSYC 343(S) The Self

This course considers "the self" from a social psychological perspective. We will read and evaluate current and classic research to better understand how beliefs and concerns about the self influence emotion, judgment, and behavior. Among the many questions we will consider are: Why do we both overestimate the extent to which others are like us and exaggerate our personal uniqueness? Why do we overestimate the extent to which others notice us and pay attention to us? Why is it so difficult to accurately recall what we used to think, and predict what we will think and do in the future? When we have a choice of receiving information about ourselves that is accurate versus information that is flattering, which do we choose-and why? Finally, the class will consider ways in which the self is conceived differently in non-Western cultures. As part of this course, students may conduct original research in the area. Requirements: hour exam, final exam, and a written/oral report of research. Prerequisite: Psychology 242. Empirical Project

Hour:  SAVITSKY