LFU:online

Basic knowledge about work and organizational psychological theories, methods and their application in practice.

The two-part lecture encompasses selected subjects from the "foundaments of applied psychology" (Bachelor's degree in psychology). Part I of this two-semester lecture focusses work psychology. First, the importance of "Psychotechnics" (e.g. Stern, Münsterberg, Lipmann) and the beginnings of the "scientific management" of work (F. W. Taylor, Henry Ford, Frank & Lillian Gilbreth) for the development of work and organizational psychology are shown in a historical overview. This is followed by humanist vs. economistic theories or concepts of work motivation and job satisfaction.

Further, theoretical foudations of W & O psychology in action-regulation-theory, activity theory, cognitive stress theory, critical theory (in particular alienation in work, technology, and interaction) and in the socio-technical design approach are presented. Further work and organizational psychological topics will be discussed: Beneficial (mental and social promotion of personality, social support, psychosocial health, occupational safety) and harmful effects of work (work-related mental stress / work load and strain, burnout, psychological conflicts, terrorization at the workplace / "mobbing"), human-centered design of work and technology. To illustrate, videos, organizational case studies, and cultural artifacts concerning work life are included.

Lecture, collective reflections, videos

written exam on both lectures I+II

Zur Einführung z.B: Mansour, A. (2015). Generation Allah. Warum wir im Kampf gegen religiösen Extremismus umdenken müssen. Frankfurt/M.: S. Fischer. Neumann, P. R. (2013). Options and Strategies for Countering Online Radicalization in the United States. Studies in Conflict & Terrorism, 36 (6), 431-459. Staub, E. (2013). Building a peaceful society: origins, prevention, and reconciliation after genocide and other group violence. American Psychologist, 68, (7), 576–589. Decker, O., Kiess, J. & & Brähler, E. (2013). Rechtsextremismus der Mitte. Gießen: Psychosozial.