81837 - Psychological Processes of Social Exclusion and Mediation

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students know the main psychological theories related to social exclusion, marginality, interpersonal and group relations and conflicts; they know the psychological dynamics and skills related to the cultural mediator and how to design educational interventions in the fields of cultural mediation and social inclusion. Students will also be able to manage the practice of mediation, including communication and psychological skills.

Course contents

The course will be divided in two parts : the first one will deal with the themes of social exclusion and ostracism. The topics will be treated from the social psychology's point of view, focusing on the processes and the psychological consequences that social exclusion can have on people.

The second part will focus on the conflicts and the mediation process as preventive practices of conflict .

The contents of the course are the following:

1. Theoretical specification of the concept of exclusion, ostracism and rejection from a psycho-social and cultural psychology point of view. An overview of the Italian and foreign literature is given in relation with these arguments.

2. Theory of mediation is discussed widely (what it is, its milestones, what it consists of). Various types of mediation are taken as examples: cultural, political and familiar.

• 3. Cultural mediators (characteristics and skills) as well as mediation strategies are analysed, in order to point out their communicative aspects (empathic listening...).
• 4. Mediation is analysed from a broad point of view, as well as discussion on power relation, professional and existential dilemmas, but also adequate solutions found out by mediators.

Readings/Bibliography

The program is the same for attending and not.

The texts and chapters proposed this year are to be studied in full. Therefore the examination program is as follows:

Quattrocolo A., D'Alessandro, M. (2021) Ascolto e mediazione, Milano, Francoangeli.

Villano, P. (2013) Fuori di giochi. La psicologia sociale di fronte all'esclusione, Milano, Pearson.

Villano, P. (2013) Pregiudizi e stereotipi, Roma, Carocci.

- 3 chapters on prejudice (gender, sexual, ethnic)

- 1 chapter on the mediator's role

 available on online virtual resources (teaching material)

Erasmus students must contact the teacher to define alternative programs

Teaching methods

The lessons are frontal, with particular attention to the discussion set on themes emerged. It is appreciated the participation of the student during the lessons, the questions and issues that can arise and that are particularly helpful for both individual study and reflection in the group.

Assessment methods

The examination is carried out only in written form and provides for an assessment in thirthy.

Teaching tools

classes with slides

Office hours

See the website of Paola Villano