PSYC 330 Cross-Cultural Psychology
Western psychology has tended to focus on the behavior of members of WEIRD (wealthy, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic societies) populations and concluded on the basis of these nonrepresentative samples that many psychological processes are universal, or shared by all people across cultures. However, cross-cultural research in psychology has demonstrated that many psychological processes are more validly described as culture-bound. This course will explore the ways in which psychology is socially constructed. Through discussions, readings, and activities, we will examine how psychological processes, and the theories and study of psychological processes, are inextricably linked to specific historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students can expect to develop a broader, global perception of contemporary psychology and a useful set of critical-thinking tools with which to analyze and evaluate psychology.
Prerequisite
PSYC 105 and at least second-year standing, or instructor's permission