Introduction to Social Psychology

These flashcards cover important concepts and terms in social psychology, providing definitions and clarifying key ideas from the lecture notes.

Social Psychology

The scientific investigation of how the thoughts, feelings and behaviors of individuals are influenced by the actual, imagined or implied presence of others.

Behaviour

What people actually do that can be objectively measured, including not only motor activities but also subtle actions and communication.

Unobservable Processes

Subconscious thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes that can be inferred from observable behaviour.

Scientific Method

A method for studying nature that involves collecting data to test hypotheses and construct theories.

Theory

A set of interrelated concepts and principles that explains a phenomenon.

Data

Publicly verifiable observations collected during research.

Conformity

The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms.

Prejudice

A preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

Social Identity Theory

A theory that explains how a person's identity is shaped by group memberships and how this affects intergroup behavior.

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort experienced by a person who holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or ideas.

Field Experiment

A research method conducted in natural settings without manipulation of variables.

Case Study

An in-depth analysis of a single case (either a person or group) or event.

Survey Research

A non-experimental method to gather data from a large group of participants to capture public opinion or experiences.

Replication Crisis

Concerns regarding the difficulty of replicating findings in social psychology, challenging the validity of research.

Discourse Analysis

A method used to analyze language and communication to understand social phenomena.

Metatheory

A set of interrelated concepts and principles concerning what types of theories or types of theory are appropriate.

Collectivist Theories

Theories that focus on individuals as products of their groups and norms rather than personal traits.

Reductionism

The explanation of complex phenomena in terms of their simpler components.

External Validity

The extent to which research findings can be generalized to real-world settings.

Internal Validity

The degree to which an experiment accurately establishes a causal relationship.