Moving beyond the theories traditionally used to describe college student development, this engaging book introduces social psychological theories that address the most relevant issues in higher education today. Covering theories of ecological systems, sense of belonging, prejudice and discrimination, positive psychology, social capital, personality theory, mentoring, and hope theory, this book promotes the understanding and application of social psychological theories to various higher education contexts. Examples from diverse student populations encourage learners’ application to situations in their own contexts. Comprehensive enough to be used as a main text but accessible enough to be used alongside another, this important textbook bridges research, theory, and practice to help practicing and aspiring higher education and student affairs professionals effectively work with college students.

Cover; Title; Copyright; Dedication; Contents; Series Editor Foreword; Preface; Part I BACKGROUND OF THEORY; Chapter 1 Introducing ... A Social Psychology Approach; Chapter 2 What's Theory Anyway?; Part II APPLICATIONS OF THEORY TO PRACTICE; Chapter 3 Ecological Systems Theory: An Ethnographic ""Glimpse""; Chapter 4 Sense of Belonging in College: A Fresh Perspective; Chapter 5 Group Contact Theory: Prejudice and Discrimination; Chapter 6 Grit and Hardiness: A Social Psychological View of Positivity; Chapter 7 Personality Theory: Three Little Pigs and Big-Five Traits. Chapter 8 Mentoring: Mutual Benefits, Separate RolesChapter 9 Hope Theory: Evidence of Things Not Seen . . .; Chapter 10 Social Influence: How Others Shape Us and Our Aspirations; Chapter 11 Epilogue; Index.