Social Psychology


The Social Psychology Program at UMass has two major areas of strength: 1) the cognitive and affective processes underlying social behavior, and 2) the psychology of peace and prevention of violence.  The former is particularly evident in research programs focused on prejudice and discrimination, mood effects on social judgments, social affective neuroscience, morality, and close relationships.  The Social Psychology Program is also home to a specialization in peace and the prevention of violence and offers a concentration in this area. The Psychology of Peace and Violence Program focuses on broad theory, rigorous methodology, and practical application as they relate to intergroup conflict and conflict resolution.  

Here are some of the current laboratories in social psychology: