Cyberpsychology: Where Psychology and Technology Meet

Catalog description

This is an introductory course in Cyberpsychology studying the methods that social media (SM) uses to influence consumer decisions and drive effective marketing techniques. The primary topic covered includes the role of social media platforms in social interaction. Students will become familiar with what SM was intended to do, as well as what it has evolved into and why it poses a risk to normal behavior and decision-making. Additional topics covered include an examination of factors that influence election outcomes, factors that guide thought processes and awareness through targeted messaging, and the use of blacklisting or shadow-banning content. The implications of these processes on consumer behavior will also be discussed.