Cross-Cultural Psychology

elective courses

n This courses introduces students to the importance an influence of

culture on important psychological themes and domains.

Much of Psychology is still Eurocentric in its approach and in its research

findings. Such a narrow approach can limit our understanding of how

psychological processes and perceptions might actually vary across the

world and across time. In a globalised world mutual understanding and

respect have become qualities that are demanded of us all in our cross

cultural and cross societal contacts.

The question of cultural and temporal variation raises yet further

questions with regard to concepts we often take for granted – what is

‘typical’, who is ‘normal’, do others share my world view? These simple

yet challenging questions already point towards profound issues that are

fundamental to how we as people understand and communicate with one

another. The module introduces the importance of a cultural, social and

communicative context for the understanding of human behaviour and

experience. As such the rationale for this module is that it is important for

students in a modern international society to appreciate the way and

manner in which psychological processes and perceptions may differ

across cultures.

This course aims to introduce not only the major areas in which cross

cultural variations have been observed but also to the methodologies

employed in uncovering them, as well as promoting an understanding of

the issues related to universality and cultural variability in behaviour,

perception and motivation. Indeed, students will be encouraged to

challenge accepted Eurocentric explanations, interpretations,

classifications and versions of human behaviour and expression.

Remember your benefits from the module are related to the amount of

effort and engagement you show. This includes participation in all lecture

and seminar sessions and supplementing your learning by reading the

indicated support material. The lectures can only provide you with a

framework for the module content. This needs to be enhanced by your

own reading.

1. Introduction

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 1, 2);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 1, 12)

2. Dimensions of culture

3. Emotion

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 8);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 7)

4. Cognition and intelligence

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 5);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 6, 9)

5. Personality

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 10);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 5)

6. Social behavior

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 13, 14);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 4)

Essay deadline

7. Organisational psychology

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 15);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 16)

8. Psychology of migration

 Berry et al. (Chapter 13)

9. Intercultural relations

 Berry et al. (Chapter 14, 15)

10. Mental health

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 11);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 17)

11. Counselling and therapy

 Matsumoto & Juang (Chapter 12);

 Berry et al. (Chapter 17)

Essential readings:

 Matsumoto, D., & Juang, L. (2013). Culture and psychology (5th ed.).

Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Cengage Learning

 Berry, J. W., Poortinga, Y. H., Breugelmans, S. M., Chasiotis, A., & Sam,

D. L. (2011). Cross cultural psychology: Research and Applications (3rd

ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Students acquire knowledge about the role of culture in human behavior.

They can identify and challenge traditional psychological theories that are

limited to Western culture. They also get an insight into theories and

research in cross-cultural psychology.

No more than two unexcused absences, no more than four absences are

allowed overall

and criteria

One essay of 2000 words(accounts for 40% of the final grade) from a

choice of 3 titles, and an unseen exam of 1 hour exam (accounting for

60% of the final grade ) comprising five short answer question. The

assessment strategy aims to encourage students to engage with a

particular topic area in more depth as well as acquiring an overall

appreciation of this particular field; the exam aims to assess the broader

scope of knowledge in relation to the topics covered in general.

Marking criteria:

Answer: The extent to which the answer addresses the question or

issue

Coherence: The extent to which each statement follows on from

previous statements and the extent to which the

structure overall is coherent

Argument: The extent to which there is a convincing line of argument

running throughout the work

Evidence: The extent to which claims are supported by relevant and

appropriate published research evidence and/or

theoretical argument.

Students must respect the principles of academic integrity. Cheating and

plagiarism (including copying work from other students, internet or other

sources) are serious violations that are punishable and instructors are

required to report all cases to the administration.