PSYCHOLOGY OF INTRA AND INTERGROUP RELATIONS

Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: ZIRA HICHY

Expected Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding (DD1): By the end of the course, students will have an in-depth understanding of the most important theories related to intra- and intergroup relations, including processes of group formation, conformity, social identity, categorization, realistic conflict, and the contact hypothesis. Applying Knowledge and Understanding (DD2): Students will be able to use these theories to analyze real-life situations or case studies involving group relations, intergroup conflicts, and contact processes, also through the use of practical activities. Making Judgments (DD3): Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate group and intergroup dynamics, recognizing ethical, cultural, or social implications, and relating them to social justice objectives such as equality, inclusion, and the reduction of discrimination. Communication Skills (DD4): Students will be able to communicate concepts related to intra- and intergroup relations with clarity and theoretical accuracy, using appropriate and inclusive technical language. Learning Skills (DD5): Students will acquire tools that foster autonomous and continuous learning, enabling them to further explore the topics of group and intergroup relations even beyond the formal study program.

Course Structure

Lectures.

Required Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of Social Psychology.

Attendance of Lessons

Recommended.

Detailed Course Content

The program involves the in-depth study of the most influential theories regarding intragroup and intergroup relationships. In particular, the elementary processes of groups, agreement, disagreement, change in groups, the effectiveness of groups, and social change will be studied.



Contribution of the course to the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

GOAL 5: GENDER EQUALITY

Target 5.1 End all forms of discrimination against all women, girls, and children everywhere in the world.

Methods: lecture-based teaching, supplementary materials

GOAL 16: PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Target 16.1 Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.

Methods: lecture-based teaching, supplementary materials


Textbook Information

·      Brown, R., & Pehrson, S. (2019). Group processes: Dynamics within and between groups. John Wiley & Sons.

·      Two articles of your choice provided by the teacher and available on Studium.

Course Planning

 SubjectsText References
1The Reality of GroupsBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
2Group Formation and Other Elementary Group ProcessesBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
3Reaching Agreement in GroupsBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
4Innovation and Change in GroupsBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
5The Effectiveness of GroupsBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
6The Morality of GroupsBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
7Conflict and InequalityBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
8Rebellion and Social ChangeBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.
9Bringing Groups TogetherBrown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino.

Learning Assessment

Learning Assessment Procedures

Oral exam.

Students enrolled in CINAP may contact the teacher by email to agree on any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures based on the educational objectives and specific needs.

Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises

  • What is the interpersonal-intergroup continuum? 
  • What is meant by social categorization? 
  • Discuss group decision-making. 
  • What is dehumanization?


The assessment criteria for the exam are:

  • Adequacy of expression regarding the contents of the course
  • Breadth of thematic awareness and lexical correctness
  • Ability to rework knowledge
  • Ability to critically analyze
  • Use of inclusive language