The Social Psychology of Belonging

Catalog description

This course will examine the psychology of belonging - its causes, consequences, and strategies to foster it in ourselves and each other. Complementing this exploration is an examination of the contrasting psychology of being an outsider. As humans, we are a fundamentally social species, "wired" to connect, and when we feel we don't, the experience can register as physical pain in our central nervous system. We will look at exclusion in its diverse forms, as it is perpetrated and experienced at both individual and societal scales. Experiences of exclusion at the individual level, especially when chronic, can undermine mental and physical well-being, achievement, and relationships. Societies have historically used systemic exclusion to establish social hierarchies and to maintain a social order. However, the course also highlights each individual's potential for creativity and positive impact in fostering belonging, even in unfamiliar environments such as those encountered while living abroad. Tailored for students in the Bing Overseas Studies program, the course will capitalize on participants' first-hand experience of displacement to connect theoretical concepts with real-life situations. The class will integrate pedagogical elements such as readings and lectures with practical components like diary activities and reflections. Ultimately, the course will empower students to recognize their role in creating inclusive communities and to apply their understanding of belonging in diverse social contexts.