81837 - Psychological Processes of Social Exclusion and Mediation

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student:

• knows the main psychological theories related to social exclusion, marginalization, interpersonal and intergroup relationships;
• understands the main psychosocial theories of intergroup conflict;
• is familiar with the key characteristics, psychological dynamics, and competencies related to the role of the mediator in various contexts (cultural, family, social);
• is able to design educational interventions in the field of mediation;
• possesses the theoretical and methodological skills to build a networked approach with different professional figures;
• is capable of initiating exchanges with social and cultural institutions in the development of mediation projects;
• can effectively manage interventions focused on social inclusion and mediation;
• is able to organize and conduct training courses for mediators and educational professionals working in the field of marginalization;
• is capable of evaluating a mediation intervention;
• can coordinate and lead the work of mediators and educational professionals working in the areas of marginalization and social exclusion;
• is skilled in interpersonal and group communication;
• is able to work in a team;
• is capable of applying acquired psychological methods and skills for self-directed learning;
• knows the tools to assess the psychosocial and educational aspects of their work in the fields of mediation, exclusion, and social inclusion.

Course contents

The course explores the main psychological processes related to social exclusion, ostracism, and rejection, which are considered precursors of inequality, social conflict, and prejudice. Particular attention will be given to participatory and community-based strategies for promoting social inclusion, such as participatory action research, community organizing, and social justice engagement. A specific focus will also be dedicated to the topic of mediation and negotiation, understood not only as tools for conflict resolution but also as preventive practices.

All topics will be addressed from a social psychology perspective, with attention to the cognitive, emotional, and relational processes involved, as well as the psychological consequences of exclusion on individuals.

Main Contents of Prof. Villano’s Module (24 hours, 4 ECTS):

• Definition and distinction between social exclusion, ostracism, and social rejection
• Theoretical explanations and psychological consequences of these phenomena
• Types and contexts of exclusion (e.g., exclusion in public discourse)
• In-depth analysis of conflict, mediation, and negotiation: models, phases, and psychological skills of the mediator/negotiator

Main Topics of Module 2 by Prof. Tzankova (24 hours, 4 ECTS):

• Stigma, dehumanization, and moral exclusion
• Prejudices and prejudice reduction
• Intergroup conflict and extreme conflicts
• Participatory, community-based, and community-level strategies for social inclusion
  (e.g., Participatory Action Research, Social Justice Engagement)

This course is part of the University’s teaching innovation project.

Readings/Bibliography

Books: 

 

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

Giudice E., Ritorto S. (2022) La gestione del conflitto, Roma, Carocci.

Zani, B. (a cura di). Psicologia di comunità: Prospettive, idee, metodi Roma, Carocci (capp. 5, 8, 10).

Teaching methods

The course combines traditional lectures with practical activities, including role-playing, group work, and project simulations. Active student participation in the classroom is strongly encouraged: questions, shared reflections, and moments of discussion are considered valuable support for individual study.

The course also follows the University of Bologna’s innovative blended teaching model, which integrates in-person activities with 4 hours of online distance learning. During these online sessions, students will engage in research and problem analysis activities. The aim of the blended format is to foster peer dialogue and stimulate critical reflection on the course topics, highlighting both their challenges and potential.

Assessment methods

For students participating in the blended module (including group work), the exam will consist of two parts:

• Oral presentation of the group project
• Written test with two open-ended questions (duration: 1 hour), based on the texts Fuori dai giochi and La gestione del conflitto

The final grade will be expressed out of 30 and divided as follows:

• 1/3 for the oral presentation
• 2/3 for the written test

For students not participating in the blended module, the exam will consist of a written test with three open-ended questions (one on each text). The final grade will also be expressed out of 30.

In both formats, the evaluation will consider not only the knowledge of theoretical content but also transversal skills such as:

• Accurate use of psychological terminology
• Ability to describe experiments and theoretical approaches
• Clarity of expression
• Capacity for critical reflection

Teaching tools

slides and Microsoft Teams 

Office hours

See the website of Paola Villano

See the website of Iana Ivanova Tzankova