PSYCHOLOGY OF INTRA AND INTERGROUP RELATIONS
Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: ZIRA HICHYExpected 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
Attendance of Lessons
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
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Reality of Groups | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 2 | Group Formation and Other Elementary Group Processes | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 3 | Reaching Agreement in Groups | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 4 | Innovation and Change in Groups | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 5 | The Effectiveness of Groups | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 6 | The Morality of Groups | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 7 | Conflict and Inequality | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 8 | Rebellion and Social Change | Brown, R. & Pehrson, S. (2023). Psicologia sociale dei gruppi. Bologna: Il Mulino. |
| 9 | Bringing Groups Together | Brown, 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