SOCPSY 1Z03 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Human Nature, Cognitive Dissonance, Role Theory
10 Mar 2016
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Document Summary
A set of interrelated propositions that organizes and explains observed phenomena (delameter & myers) It goes beyond more observable facts by postulating casual relations among variables. If a theory is valid, it enables its user to explain the phenomena under consideration and make predictions about events not yet observed. A tentative explanation about how we think and why. Tentative because it"s not proven as a fact but we have a reason why something works a certain way. Provides a framework for how we test and gather data, should be tested. General explanations for a wide array of social behaviours in a variety of situations. Provide a frame of reference for interpreting and comparing a wide range of social situations and behaviours. Social psychology investigates the 5 following theoretical perspectives: role theory, reinforcement theory, cognitive theory, symbolic interaction theory, evolutionary theory. Much of observable social behavior is people carrying out their roles, similar to actors performing on a stage.
