Course Title: The Psychology of Decision-Making

Course Overview:

The Psychology of Decision-Making course delves into the intricate processes

underlying human choices and judgments. It explores the psychological principles,
biases, and heuristics that influence decision-making across various contexts, from
individual choices to group dynamics and organizational behavior. Through a
combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical exercises,
students gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping decision-making
and learn strategies to improve their own decision-making processes.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction to Decision-Making Psychology:

- Overview of decision-making processes
- Historical perspectives and key theories

2. Cognitive Biases and Heuristics:

- Identification and understanding of common biases (e.g., confirmation bias,
anchoring)
- The role of heuristics in decision-making

3. Rationality vs. Irrationality:

- Examination of rational decision-making models
- Factors leading to deviations from rationality

4. Emotions and Decision-Making:

- Impact of emotions on choices and judgments
- Strategies for managing emotions in decision-making

5. Decision-Making in Uncertainty and Risk:

- Analysis of decision-making under uncertainty
- Techniques for evaluating and managing risk

6. Social Influences on Decision-Making:

- Effects of social norms, conformity, and group dynamics on choices
- Understanding the role of culture in decision-making

7. Decision-Making in Organizations:
- Organizational decision-making processes
- Leadership and decision-making styles

8. Ethical Decision-Making:
- Ethical considerations in decision-making
- Frameworks for ethical decision-making

Course Objectives:

- Develop a critical awareness of the psychological factors influencing decision-

making.
- Recognize and mitigate cognitive biases and heuristics in decision-making
processes.
- Understand the interplay between emotions, cognition, and decision-making
outcomes.
- Apply decision-making strategies in uncertain and risk-prone situations.
- Analyze and navigate social influences on individual and group decision-making.
- Evaluate ethical dilemmas and make principled decisions in personal and
professional contexts.
Through engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and practical exercises, this
course equips students with valuable insights and skills to enhance their decision-
making abilities in various aspects of life and work.