Social Psychology, An Introduction to the Study of Human Relations (Second Edition)

SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF HUMAN RELATIONS, S. Stansfeld Sargent and Robert C. Williamson, hardcover with clipped dust jacket, stated second edition, some illustrations, 1958. BOOK CONDITION: good. The text block and illustrations are in good condition, with no tears or dogears, but there are lightly penciled underlinings on some pages, but no marginal notes. No bookplate or signature of prior owner. The pages are age-toned and the endpapers have toned sections caused by dust jacket flaps. Not a library book or remainder. The dark blue cloth boards are in good condition (corner and spine bumping, edge wear). The dust jacket is in fair condition (intact, but faded and discolorerd, edge chipping and a few tears). 9 x 6, 649 pages, 37 ounces XX [From the Simply Psychology website] Social psychology is the scientific study of how people’s thoughts, feelings, beliefs, intentions, and goals are constructed within a social context by the actual or imagined interactions with others. It, therefore, looks at human behavior as influenced by other people and the conditions under which social behavior and feelings occur. Baron, Byrne, and Suls (1989) define social psychology as the scientific field that seeks to understand the nature and causes of individual behavior in social situations. Topics examined in social psychology include the self-concept, social cognition, attribution theory, social influence, group processes, prejudice and discrimination, interpersonal processes, aggression, attitudes, and stereotypes. Social psychology operates on several foundational assumptions. These fundamental beliefs provide a framework for theories, research, and interpretations. Social psychologists assume an interplay exists between individual minds and the broader social context. An individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are continuously shaped by social interactions, and in turn, individuals influence the societies they are a part of. One core assumption is that behavior can vary significantly based on the situation or context. Our perceptions of reality are influenced by personal beliefs, societal norms, and past experiences. Social psychologists believe that individuals actively construct their social world. A fundamental assumption is the inherent social nature of humans. People have an innate need to connect with others, form relationships, and belong to groups. It’s a foundational belief that our attitudes (combinations of beliefs and feelings) can and often do drive our actions. People are motivated to maintain consistency in their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. It’s assumed that individuals are generally motivated to maintain and enhance a positive self-view. An underlying assumption of any science, including social psychology, is that phenomena (in this case, human behavior in social contexts) can be studied, understood, predicted, and potentially influenced. Though earlier social psychology might have been criticized for neglecting these factors, contemporary social psychology acknowledges the roles of both biology (genes, hormones, brain processes) and culture (norms, values, traditions) in shaping social behavior.…