Introduction to Self and Identity 2500-EN-F-188
The course will not cover all issues concerning the self and identity in
humanities. However, it will provide you with knowledge on key concepts
in psychology. First of all, we will define terminology regarding identity in
psychology and the distinctions between various concepts of identity. The
second class will be devoted to identity creation and its unconscious
aspect- implicit self. Then we will focus on the social identity and how
identity depends on relations with people and culture. We will try to find
out if it is possible to distinguish between “true self” and the different
faces that people present to others depending on circumstances. During
the next class we will examine how autobiographical memory shapes the
self and what is the role of narratives and language in that process. At the
fifth class several psychological identity measures will be presented, you
will thus be provided with practical tools for your thesis. Then we will
discuss examples of unhealthy identity. Finally, during the last class, the
humanistic background for psychological identity theories will be
outlined.
Type of course
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to distinguish various concepts associated with
identity in psychology and will be equipped with several psychological
tools to measure them. Interdisciplinary approach will allow students to
fully recognize psychological concepts of identity in the field of
humanities, thus giving them the flexibility and confidence in using them
in their work.
Assessment criteria
Your grade will be composed of the following three assessment
components:
1. Class Participation & Attendance 30%
2. Oral Presentation 30%
3. Exam 40%
Ad 1. You are expected to come and be prepared for class. Attending at
least 7 classes is required. Also students must read all the assigned
obligatory materials for each session and bring these materials to class
(on paper or digitally). This is usually one book chapter or an article. Your
preparation for the class might be checked by short, written quizzes, for
which you can get points. This grade is also supplemented by active,
productive in class participation.
Ad 2. You are required to prepare one presentation during the course.
In your presentation (of about 5 minutes) you are expected to shortly
introduce an aspect of the readings that you find interesting or
controversial, and bring up questions for discussion. You are encouraged
to compare the readings to what we have discussed in previous weeks,
relate to your classmates’ discussion points, or bring in a relevant case
study. Whatever you choose to do, make sure your discussion point is
focused and concise. Do not summarize an entire material - your
assignment is to take a step further and open a discussion.
Ad 3. Multiple choice test. The idea of this exam is that if you attended
the classes and have thoroughly prepared for them throughout the
course, you will have no difficulty with the exam. You do not need to
read suggested readings to pass the exam, all the required information
will be provided during the classes.
Attendance rules
One absence is allowed. If you are unable to attend, you are responsible
for independently catching up on course material and class discussion. If
you miss more than one class you will be given additional assignments to
fulfill. If you miss more than two classes you will not pass the course.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: