What does the acronym C.A.R.E stand for in social psychology?

The acronym C.A.R.E in social psychology stands for Comprehension, Acceptance, Retention, and Action. This framework encapsulates key processes involved in how individuals make sense of social information and respond to it.

Comprehension involves understanding the social cues or information presented in an interaction. Acceptance refers to acknowledging and embracing this information, which can be crucial for social adjustment and interaction. Retention indicates the ability to remember and retain this information for future reference, allowing individuals to build on their social knowledge over time. Finally, Action encapsulates how this understanding and retention influence behaviors and responses in social contexts.

This sequence emphasizes the importance of cognitive processes in social psychology and illustrates how individuals move from understanding social information to engaging in appropriate social actions. Recognizing these stages can lead to deeper insights into behavior in social environments, enhancing our comprehension of interpersonal relationships and social dynamics.