Teaching an Undergraduate Course on the Psychology of Racism

Abstract

A course on the psychology of racism can be difficult and sensitive for both student and instructor. In this article, I describe the format and content for a seminar class about racism and psychological theories developed to explain its occurrence. Emphasizing the importance of evaluating theory (e.g., social learning theory, realistic conflict theory, genetic similarity theory, stages of racial identity, and social categorization theory) and supporting research helps students gain insight into social psychology's contributions toward understanding and preventing racism. Using multiple teaching methods averts potential problems related to the sensitive nature of the material. Course evaluations reveal that students learned a great deal from the course and enjoyed critically evaluating this issue in a formal manner.