OVERVIEW

This course introduces students to the core concepts and models of social psychology, with a specific focus on their application in psychiatric and rehabilitative contexts. It is a foundational discipline for understanding relational dynamics in therapeutic and care settings.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Students will:

• acquire knowledge of nosography and semiotics of psychiatric disorders;

• understand psychometric principles to develop the ability to use assessment tools in rehabilitative practice;

• explore the biological dimension of mental processes, as well as the socio-cultural, emotional and cognitive components of social behaviour;

• understand primitive mental functioning;

• gain foundational knowledge for promoting health and safety among patients and healthcare professionals;

• learn basic first aid techniques.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

- describe the main concepts of social psychology and their theoretical and applied relevance;

- identify and analyse group dynamics, social norms, and processes of social influence;

- understand the impact of stigma in mental illness and the role of social identity;

- apply the biopsychosocial model in the design of rehabilitative interventions;

- develop critical thinking and communication skills in discussing and presenting case studies;

- design basic psychoeducational activities aligned with rehabilitative goals.

TEACHING METHODS

- Interactive lectures supported by slides, academic articles, and case-based discussions;

- Group work: each group will prepare a presentation on a topic related to psychiatric rehabilitation, selected from 15 proposed titles;

- Plenary discussion of group presentations.

Inclusivity:

Students with valid certification for Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), disabilities or other special educational needs are encouraged to contact the course instructor and the department’s disability coordinator at the start of the course to agree on suitable learning arrangements that respect individual needs while maintaining course objectives.

EVALUATION

- Group presentation assessment  (0–6 points awarded individually per student);

- Individual oral examination at the end of the course to evaluate theoretical understanding and practical application of the course content.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Definition and domains of social psychology

- Social cognition, impressions, stereotypes, and schemas

- Conformity, social norms, obedience

- Group dynamics and social influence

- Stigma and social identity in mental illness

- The biopsychosocial model in rehabilitation

- Case studies: Stanford and Milgram experiments

- Designing rehabilitative interventions using a psychosocial approach

Moreover, the course contributes to the achievement of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically:

- Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all;

- Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Required materials:

- Lecturer’s slides

- Instructor-prepared handouts

- Selected readings and resources:

  - The biopsychosocial model

  - The Stanford prison experiment

  - Conformity and social change

  - Educational videos (Asch, Milgram, Zimbardo)

Reference textbook:

- Psicologia sociale – Teorie e applicazioni, Pearson, 2023

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Second Semester

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral examination