Question

What is the relevance of social psychology to the community, the environment and the world at large?

Answer 1

Social psychology is the scientific study of behavior of an individual in the society at large. For this reason, it holds a specific value in the world of academics and amidst other developed departments or disciplines. Social psychology attempts to understand the socio-psychological causes and motives of human behaviour in groups. Social psychology is closely linked to mental health and well-being of individuals and groups. Most of the mental health related problems such as depression or anxiety may have socio-psychological causes behind them. These may include loss of a job, loss of a loved one, marital discord, unexpected and unpleasant social or environmental changes, etc. Social psychologists too can be involved with the treatment and intervention planning of such clients along with the clinical psychologists. In fact, in certain countries social psychologists are licensed to practice independently. In business as well, the techniques of marketing involve a lot social psychological issues in order to attract clientele. These are made in a way to change the attitude of people towards a certain section or characteristics prevailing in the society. It also tends to play a role in the education or industrial sector by influencing a lot of socio-economic or environmental factors for individuals. These include lack of opportunities, teaching-learning practices, level of exposure and stimulation in the environment to foster learning, creation of conducive environment for adequate learning, etc. Good working environment and healthy relationships at work will foster greater productivity and efficiency of workforce at a national/societal level. Social psychologists are trained to create such an environment at the workplaces of individuals.