Class Dinâmicas Grupais e Intergrupais

This course explores group and intergroup dynamics and processes based on extensive research in social psychology, both classic and contemporary. It will cover fundamental processes and dynamics within groups, such as group formation, motivation and collective performance, group decision-making, and group identification. Additionally, intergroup processes will be addressed, including the formation of stereotypes and prejudices, as well as attitudes and behaviors towards outgroups. The main objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how these dynamics operate within and between groups in various contexts.

PC1. Introduction to Group and Intergroup Dynamics

PC1.1. Definition, Types, and Psychological Significance of Groups

PC1.2. Theoretical Perspectives in the Study of Intra and Intergroup Dynamics

PC1.3. Practical Application of Intra and Intergroup Dynamics

PC2. Group Dynamics

PC2.1. Group Formation, Group Membership, and Cohesion

PC2.2. Group Structure and Norms

PC2.3. Social Influence, Power, and Leadership

PC2.4. Group Performance

PC2.5. Communication in Groups and Decision Making

PC2.6. Intragroup Conflict

PC3. Intergroup Dynamics

PC23.1. Social Categorization, Status, and Social Stratification

PC23.2. Social Identity Approach: Self-Categorization Theory, Social Identity Theory, and Recent Extensions

PC2.3. Intergroup Biases: Prejudice, Stereotypes, and Discrimination

PC2.4. Intergroup Relationships in Childhood and Adolescence

PC2.5. Social Change and Prejudice Reduction

Note.  PC = program contents

In this course, we will use an active learning methodology where the student is placed at the center of the process, stimulating their autonomy. To achieve this, the teaching-learning process is based on reading and discussing supporting texts (theoretical chapters or empirical articles), and students will be assigned the responsibility of facilitating discussions for each supporting text throughout the semester. The texts will be provided in advance, allowing students to develop a critical perspective to be presented and discussed in class. Additionally, some classes will include group activities to introduce program content in a more practical and experiential manner, serving as a starting point for class discussions.

The evaluation will focus on the facilitation of in-class discussions, participation in discussions, and completion of individual assignments involving analysis and critical reflection, applying the program contents covered.

Forsyth, D. R. (2018). Group Dynamics. 7th ed. Boston, MA: Cengage. 

Kruglanski, A. W., & Higgins, E. T. (Eds.) (2013). Social psychology: Handbook of basic principles . Guilford Publications.

O'Doherty, K., & Hodgetts, D. (Eds.) (2019). The SAGE handbook of applied social psychology . SAGE Publications Ltd. 

Vala, J. e Monteiro, M.B. (2013 ). Psicologia Social (9ªed.). Lisboa: Fundac¿a¿o Calouste Gulbenkian. 

S. T. Fiske, D. T. Gilbert, & G. Lindzey (Eds.), Handbook of Social Psychology, Vol. 2 (5th ed.) Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley.