Applications of Social Psychology: How Social Psychology Can Contribute to the Solution of Real-World Problems

This book explores what social psychology can contribute to our understanding of real-life problems and how it can inform rational interventions in any area of social life. By reviewing some of the most recent achievements in applying social psychology to pressing contemporary problems, Forgas, Crano, and Fiedler convey a fundamentally optimistic message about social psychology’s achievements and prospects.

The book is organized into four sections. Part I focuses on the basic issues and methods of applying social psychology to real-life problems, discussing evolutionary influences on human sociability, the role of psychological ‘mindsets’ in interpreting reality, and the use of attitude change techniques to promote adaptive behaviors. Part II explores the applications of social psychology to improve individual health and well-being, including managing aggression, eating disorders, and improving therapeutic interactions. Part III turns to the application of social psychology to improve interpersonal relations and communication, including attachment processes in social relationships, the role of parent-child interaction in preventing adolescent suicide, and analyzing social relations in legal settings and online social networks. Finally, Part IV addresses the question of how social psychology may improve our understanding of public affairs and political behavior.

The book will be of interest to students and academics in social psychology, and professionals working in applied settings.

Joseph P. Forgas is Scientia Professor at the University of New South Wales. In recognition of his work, he received the Order of Australia, the Distinguished Scientific Contribution Award, and has been elected Fellow of the Australian and Hungarian Academies of Science.

William D. Crano is Oskamp Professor of Psychology at Claremont Graduate University. He was liaison scientist for the US Office of Naval Research, NATO Senior Scientist, and Fulbright Senior Scholar.

Klaus Fiedler is Professor of Psychology at the University of Heidelberg, Fellow of the German Academies of Science and the American Psychological Society and the Society for Personality and Social Psychology.