The field of cross-cultural psychology is the scientific examination and study of variation in human behavior and mental processes. Cross-cultural psychology is taking into account the ways in which behavior and mental processes are influenced by cultural context. The course concerns with the main topics of cross-cultural psychology; we will discuss conceptual issues and theories within the field (e.g. Hofstede’s cultural dimension, Schwartz´s values) and we will pay attention to cultural variations in behavior, education, socialization or mental processes (cognitive, motivation, affective) and phenomenon across cultures. The space will be devoted to inter-group processes and conflicts (stereotypes, prejudice, ethnocentrism, coexistence of majority and minority, multicultural society) and to cultural differences in relation to health or gender. The course should help students to achieve theoretical and practical experiences on the role of culture in the psyche and behavior, facilitate reflection of own cultural background and identity, with respect and openness to other cultures, and improve student´s intercultural competence while working with people from different cultural backgrounds. The course will held interactive character that requires "active" attitude from participants.
Last update: Mgr. Eva Beranová (13.01.2019)
This course provides an examination of the rapidly growing field of cross-cultural psychology for students who
have had at least some prior academic training in psychology and related disciplines, and who seek to extend their
knowledge of the relationship between culture and behavior. The course consists of four parts. The introduction
orients the students toward the field by providing a general framework. Part II critically surveys a few empirical
studies in important areas of human behavior that have long been treated in psychology: these include
developmental, social, personality, cognition, and perception. Part III provides essential information on the
methodological and theoretical foundations of cross-cultural psychology. Part IV builds upon the knowledge and
principles established earlier on to consider how cross-cultural psychology can contribute to areas such as
acculturation, ethnic and minority groups, organizations and work,communication and training, health behaviour,
and the role of psychology in the developing world.
