- Docente: Alessio Avenanti
- Credits: 6
- SSD: M-PSI/02
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Cesena
- Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Neurosciences and neuro-psychological rehabilitation (cod. 0989)
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course the students will posses knowledge about the functional mechanisms and neural bases of social cognition and social behavior;
Course contents
The course will take place during the first semester (from October to December 2015) at the Cesena Campus of the School of Psychology and Education (address: piazza A. Moro, 90, Room D).
The purpose of the course is to survey the neural basis and
functional mechanisms of social behavior and social cognition, and
their alteration in patients with brain damage, drawing on both
theoretical and empirical contributions of current literature.
Topics will include social perception, imitation, theory of mind,
empathy and social interactions between individuals and
groups.
Specific contents:
- Perception of faces and bodies;
- Perception of social and emotional information;
- Perception and imitation of actions and the mirror neuron system;
- Simulation and inferential processes in Theory of Mind and empathy;
- Decision-making and social interaction
Readings/Bibliography
Scientific papers and other course materials for this course will be made available at the course website. These readings are mandatory to pass the final exam. Suggested readings: Giacomo Rizzolatti & Corrado Sinigaglia (2006). "So quel che fai. Il cervello che agisce e i neuroni specchio". Editore Cortina Raffaello
Teaching methods
Each class meeting will include introductory reviews by faculty, student seminars based on recent literature, and final discussions. Thus, an active role in discussion is expected. Students are expected to read the assigned readings, and to come to class ready to participate with questions and a scientifically critical attitude.
Assessment methods
Written exam with 3-4 open-ended questions and lasting 60 minutes. Students who present scientific articles during the course could get a bonus (0-2 points) for the final mark.
Teaching tools
Slides (PowerPoint)
Office hours
See the website of Alessio Avenanti