Because we (usually) interact with people on a daily basis, we are constantly immersed in social processes. Even when we are not in direct contact with others, the experiences we have may still be “

Because we (usually) interact with people on a daily basis, we are constantly immersed in social processes. Even when we are not in direct contact with others, the experiences we have may still be “social” in nature (e.g., the persuasive arguments you are exposed to everyday as you read magazines or watch TV; the beliefs you have about yourself or others). However, rarely do we attempt to critically examine ourselves and our surroundings from a social psychological perspective. The goal of this assignment is to step “out of your skin” so to speak, and try to see your daily experiences within the framework of the concepts you are learning in this class.

In a blog entry (equivalent to 3-4 pages) journal the experiences from your week from a social psychological perspective. In other words, keep note of things that happen to you, behaviors you see occurring in other individuals or among social groups, events in the media, and even storylines from books that you’re reading or TV shows you are watching (and including commercials). Basically, anything you notice in your daily life is fair game (assuming you can tie it into the course content). You should carefully explain the event or experience (so that I understand what is going on), and then give evidence to support why this illustrates a social psychological concept. Students should spend a minimum of 30 mins a day for the entire week (or at a minimum 5 days) journaling about their day.

Note: Since this is a journal, feel free to structure it as you would a diary or log. For example:

Monday: entry here

Tuesday: entry here

.... and so forth

Pictures/images are encouraged and students should view each other’s journals and make comments on them.