Selves and Identities (C8027)

15 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

This module looks at how our thoughts, feelings, motives, and actions are shaped by who we think we are—our self-concepts and identities. It explores both classic and modern psychological ideas about how self and identity work.

You’ll examine key theories and debates in social psychology, while also considering perspectives from developmental psychology, cross-cultural studies, social constructionism, and philosophy. The module connects these ideas to real-world issues like well-being, health behaviors, relationships, prejudice, and politics.

It’s designed to encourage independent and critical thinking, helping you explore how our sense of self influences everyday life.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 21 hours of contact time and about 129 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.