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School of Psychology

Selves and Identities (C8027)

Selves and Identities

Module C8027

Module details for 2025/26.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 6

Full Module Description

Psychological research has shown that in many ways our thoughts, feelings, motives and actions depend on who we think we are: our self-concepts or identities. This module explores classic and contemporary psychological accounts of self and identity processes. Coverage is broad, encompassing a thorough and critical examination of key theories and debates in social psychologydrawing also on developmental, cross-cultural, social constructionist and philosophical perspectives as well as considering the implications of these theories for real-world issues, such as subjective well-being, health behaviours, personal relationships, prejudice and politics. The module is designed to encourage and reward independent and critical thinking about these issues.

Module Outline

Psychological research has shown that in many ways our thoughts, feelings, motives and actions depend on who we think we are: our self-concepts or identities. This module explores classic and contemporary psychological accounts of self and identity processes. Coverage is broad, encompassing a thorough and critical examination of key theories and debates in social psychologydrawing also on developmental, cross-cultural, social constructionist and philosophical perspectives as well as considering the implications of these theories for real-world issues, such as subjective well-being, health behaviours, personal relationships, prejudice and politics. The module is designed to encourage and reward independent and critical thinking about these issues.

Module learning outcomes

Consolidate knowledge of a range of theoretical perspectives and empirical research into self and identity processes derived from a diverse literature

Devise arguments about current and possible future applications of such knowledge to issues of personal and/or societal wellbeing

Communicate psychological insights about self and identity processes accurately and intelligibly for both specialist and non-specialist audiences

TypeTimingWeighting
Coursework20.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
PresentationT1 Week 10 (12 minutes)100.00%
Essay (3000 words)Semester 1 Assessment Week 2 Thu 16:0080.00%
Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Autumn SemesterSeminar2 hours00111111110
Autumn SemesterLecture1 hour11000010101

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Prof Vivian Vignoles

Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/132528

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