Course overview
The aim of this course is to develop and extend students' knowledge and understanding of the social, emotional, developmental and psychological dimensions of peers and relationships. Students will develop knowledge and understanding about the ways in which peers and the relationships we have with those around us, impact on our health wellbeing and influence the social dynamic of schools, classrooms, and workplaces. Through exploration of the following: attachment; acceptance and attraction; social competence; loneliness and shyness; peer pressure and compliance; aggression, bullying and bystanders; the self and resilience; childhood and adolescent depression and suicide; ways of improving peer relationships for positive health, wellbeing and learning outcomes are determined.
Course learning outcomes
- Analyse the social dynamic of various environments in terms of peer interactions (sporting, educational, working)
- Recognise the importance of positive peer interactions and social competencies for healthy outcomes
- Explain the health related issues which arise from both positive and negative peer interactions
- Develop strategies for facilitating positive peer interactions and dealing with negative ones
- Apply this knowledge to various arenas: education, sporting and working environments
- Recognise and evaluate the contribution of peer relationships to bullying, aggression, stress, loneliness, depression and suicide