Social Psychology of Social Problems

"This is social psychology at its best - basic and applied research on stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination contributing up-to-date knowledge necessary to solve such societal problems as inequality and injustice, political participation and disengagement, intergroup conflict and violence, extremism and terrorism." - Professor Bogdan Wojciszke, Polish Academy of Science, Poland "This book explores important social issues from a social psychology point of view. It has a highly applied edge to it where theory is linked to real events and discussed, by recognised scholars, in the context of relevant classic and current empirical literature. This is definitely a useful and much-needed addition to the current literature." - Dr Magdalena Zawisza, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, University of Winchester, UK "This is a clearly written and well-structured book and as such functions well as an introductory text. It also offers a novel approach to subject through concrete case studies of different social problems. The problems are foregrounded such that students see how social psychology might be relevant to the real world." - Dr Brady Wagoner, Aalborg University, Denmark

Encompassing contemporary social problems and cutting-edge research, top international experts provide a window into understanding the psychology behind societal problems and why they develop, offering crucial applications of psychological theory for the undergraduate student.Why do we protest? What compels us to participate in crowd violence? Can gender discrimination in the workplace be explained in psychological terms? From terrorist attacks to political uprisings, the social problems that have shaped the beginning of the new millenium can be explained using the theories and application of social psychology. Social Psychology of Social Problems does just that, with top international experts examining real-life issues. The book takes the view that if a problem and its origins can be understood, then perhaps it can be prevented from happening again. Social Psychology of Social Problems is required reading for students and practitioners of psychology, social policy and international relations. Provocative and challenging, it will be an essential resource for those who are seeking a deeper understanding of how social psychology can explain our complex world.