Why do people stand so close to you in other countries? Why should you avoid eating with your left hand in some places? Why do people drive on the left side of the road in some countries? How does your nationality influence the way you think about food? How is the U.S. viewed by other countries? In this course, we will explore these questions and many more as we learn about cross-cultural psychology. Cross-cultural psychology is the study of cultural effects on human behavior and diversity. We will examine theoretical perspectives and empirical findings in cross-cultural psychology. This course will cover topics such as: development, understanding the self, cognition, communication (verbal and nonverbal), emotion, relationships, prejudice, gender, mental and physical health, and what it means to live and work in a diverse and multicultural society. We will examine these issues both within the cultural groups in the United States as well as cultures around the globe. This course is designed to increase awareness and sensitivity to issues pertaining to diversity and differences among people and to allow for discussions on these sensitive topics.
This course will be offered in 2024-25, and in alternating years thereafter.
No prior experience with psychology is needed to take this course.