B3072 - Theoretical and Operational Models in Community Psychology

Learning outcomes

At the end of the training activity, the student - is familiar with the main theoretical models of community psychology, ; - is able to frame the problems of the individual in the social contexts from which they originate, recognising interdependencies; - knows the psychological dynamics of social groups active in the community - knows how to analyse the needs of a local community and the various expressions of organised social life; - knows and knows how to use the tools of action-research and intervention aimed at empowerment , the promotion of well-being, and prevention of psychosocial risks.

Course contents

The course will take place during the first semester (from September, 30 2024 to December 16, 2024) at the Department of Psychology, Cesena Campus (address: piazza A. Moro, 90, Cesena, Room A).

The course aims to illustrate the main theoretical and operational orientations of Community Psychology (CoP), starting from an analysis of its origins and development. The discipline is proposed as a perspective, a way of knowing reality, based on the consideration that people and their needs can only be understood within the social contexts of which they are part and with which they interact. The community approach in both clinical and non-clinical settings values the strengths, resources and skills of the community and its members as a focus for analysis and intervention. The ecological perspective, the promotion of participation and the orientation towards social justice represent the more general framework of interventions to promote wellbeing and health and to combat discrimination and inequalities.

To be able to take part in the course students should have acquired basic knowledge in social and group psychology: this knowledge will be verified during the first class hours. In case of problems, students will give appropriate readings.

Module 2: 30 hours (teacher prof. Cinzia Albanesi, from September 30, 2024, to November 25, 2024)

Goals and theoretical perspectives: the ecological and systemic approach, the critical community psychology; working toward social justice and well-being.

Key concepts and intervention perspectives: empowerment, resilience sense of community, social networks and social support, wellbeing and social justice.

Methodologies and intervention strategies: PAR - participatory action research, prevention and health promotion

Module 1: 15 hours (teacher: prof. Gabriele Prati, from November 25 2024, to December 16 2024)

Impact of disasters and accidents on social practices and community

Community resilience and growth

The community of volunteers and rescue workers following a disaster

Psychological interventions at group and community level: Psychological First Aid, psychosocial support, and peer support programs.

Readings/Bibliography

- For the written exam:

Zani B. (Ed.) (2012) Psicologia di comunità. Prospettive, idee, metodi. (Community Psychology. Perspectives, ideas, methods.) Roma: Carocci chapters 1,2, 5,6,7,8,9, 10,11, 12.

Pietrantoni L., Prati G., Psicologia dell'emergenza, Il Mulino, Bologna (2009), chapters 1,3,4,5,6,7,9.

Teaching methods

Lectures, group work, case analysis, meetings with professionals and experts, analysis of scientific articles and visual materials.

Assessment methods

The final exam is organized as follows:

1. Written essay on the assigned texts: 4 open ended questions (in 1 hour time), aimed to assess the acquired basic knowledge in the topics of the course treated in both modules, and the critical thinking in the analysis of the psychosocial phenomena and/or to apply the knowledge acquired. Grade 18 (essential knowledge) will be obtained when answers show basic knowledge, without critical discussions or reference to specific experiences and research exemplifying concepts/topics. Grade 30 (excellent knowledge) will be obtained when answers show critical knowledge of the topic/concept, and extended discussion of relevant projects and research analysed during classes and in the texts. 

During the exams calculation tools and vocabularies are not allowed.Compensatory tools for students with Specific Learning disorders are allowed, in accordance with the national regulations.

Active participation in class and completion of the group work assigned in class will contribute to the final grade up to 3 marks These points will be added to the grade of the written essay.

Non-attending students will take the written exam on the exam texts  in the same manner as attending students (no bonus from group work/active participation is possible)

Erasmus students may ask to take the written examination in English and on English-language texts. Prior arrangement with the lecturers is required.

In order to be admitted to the exam, students must register on the exam session on Almaesami respecting the deadline. Students who are not able to register on Almaesami for technical reasons, should contact the teacher via email before the deadline of the registration.

Teaching tools

PC, internet, power point, web resources, virtual learning enviroment unibo

Office hours

See the website of Cinzia Albanesi

See the website of Gabriele Prati