Psychology 337 - Stereotypes and Prejudice

 How can we use psychology to understand stereotypes of marginalized groups, systems of oppression and privilege, and institutionalized forms of prejudice and discrimination (e.g., racism, sexism, heterosexism, classism, ableism)? This advanced seminar provides an overview of the social psychological study of stereotyping and prejudice. Using theories, concepts, and methodologies of psychological science, this course will examine how the psychological factors underlying experiences of stereotyping and prejudice impact diverse groups at individual and group levels. Readings will come primarily from psychology (e.g., empirical and theoretical psychology research articles and literature reviews) supplemented with non-psychology readings (e.g., book chapters, videos, podcasts, and media articles) to connect contemporary issues with psychological research. As this is an upper-level advanced seminar, students will be expected to lead and participate in weekly class discussions and reflection, as well as produce a comprehensive project focusing on research and application (e.g., proposing and conducting a study).  While this course aims to address stereotypes and prejudice of multiple and diverse marginalized groups, one such group among them will include the Asian American & Pacific Islander community—thus, this course is cross-listed with the Asian American / Pacific Islander Studies major.

Requisite: PSYC 100 and PSYC 220 or instructor's permission. Limited to 18 students. Fall semester: Professor Lee.

How to handle overenrollment: Majors will be given preference according to seniority and pre-registration.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Strong emphasis on writing, empirical readings, and discussion. Each week we will read 3-4 empirical articles. Students will be asked to write weekly discussion questions, several short papers (3 pages each), one long paper (15 pages), and participate in weekly small-group as well as class discussions. The final project for the course has several options (e.g. a podcast).