Human Motivation and Behavior in Social Context

Kiho TANAKA

Objective
   Motivation is an inner energy of human behavior, which means it arouses and orients our behavior. However, the relation between motivation and behavior is influenced by individuals' traits, situations, and cultural backgrounds. In this class, human motivation and behavior is explained from psychological framework. We will discuss about interpersonal communication, self-understanding, trends, and prejudice and stereotype for instance, and try to clarify its psychological mechanism. We will also focus on Japanese culture and customs to understand Japanese psychology.

Course Schedule

1. Introduction: What motivates you?
2. Hunger as a Motive: Hunger and maladaptive eating patterns
3. Belonging as a Motive: Why do you belong to groups?
4. Achieving as a Motive: What is one major goal in your life?
5. Emotional Expression: Display rules
6. Stress and Adjustment: How does stress influence health and behavior?
7. Attachment and Parenting Styles: How does it help a child develop socially?
8. Attitudes and Culture: From where did your attitudes come?
9. Prejudice and Stereotype: What influence development of prejudice?
10. Communication: Understanding Others
11. Organizational Behavior: Leadership and Collectivism/Individualism
12. Arts: Do you go to opera?
13. Tradition and trends: Are Japanese sensitive to the fashion?
14. Exam
15. Summary

Textbook and Reference
   Handouts will be distributed at each lecture
   Reading lists will be provided in the first class.

Grading
   Class participation 30%
   Presentation / Written assignment 30%
   Final report / essay 40%