Module 01: Background for I/O Psychology

Description: This module introduces the field of cultural psychology, emphasizing how psychological processes are shaped by cultural experiences. Students will explore the limitations of Western-centric psychological research and begin to reflect on their own cultural assumptions.

Why this Module is Important: Most psychological research has been conducted in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) societies—especially the U.S.—which limits our understanding of human behavior. This module challenges that bias by exploring how culture shapes the way people think, feel, and act. Recognizing these differences is essential for anyone working in counseling, education, healthcare, or global fields. It helps us better understand others—and ourselves—through a more inclusive psychological lens.

Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…

• MLO1: Identify the overriding themes in cultural psychology. (ULO1, CLO1, APA1)
• MLO2: Examine one’s own ethnocentric thinking. (ULO1, CLO4, APA3)
• MLO3: Apply the levels of analysis to determine the universality of psychological processes. (ULO1, CLO2, APA1)