This volume extensively examines the current psycho-social challenges individuals and groups face in building a responsible society. It challenges the norms of social influence research, focusing on processes that drive responsible organizations and societal advancement. It delves into the layers of influence that shape our societies. It also spotlights the practical complexities of implementing government schemes, mainly focusing on Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (PwIDDs). This volume uncovers the driving forces behind societal evolution and the strategies that harness responsible influence for a more inclusive and progressive future. Chapters in this contributed volume present theoretical contributions and results of empirical research from different disciplines, such as applied social and cognitive psychology, organizational psychology, cultural psychology, health psychology, educational psychology, life-span development, and are grouped into four thematic sections. The first part of the book brings together chapters discussing culture, diversity and inclusivity. The second part highlights issues of gender equity and resilience in Indian society. The third part focuses on health and well-being, Finally, the fourth part discusses resilient and responsible behavior in everyday social contexts. The book offers valuable insights into addressing social-psychological challenges individuals and groups face, promoting resilient and sustainable behavior towards a responsible society. It is a valuable resource for researchers in the fields of psychology, as well as for educators and teachers interested in knowing more about social psychological issues related to equity, diversity, and inclusivity within the Indian context.

Autorentext

Urmi Nanda Biswas is a professor at the Department of Psychology, University of Delhi, India. She is an applied social psychologist with research focus on health, gender, workplace behaviour, and cross-cultural psychology. She has over 29 years of postgraduate teaching and research experience. Dr Biswas has been a Commonwealth Scholar at Roehampton University, London and has been a visiting Professor at Gothenburg University, Sweden. She has received several research grants, including UKIERI, British Council, FORTE, Sweden, Population Council New York, ICMR, ICSSR, and UGC in India. She has been associated with editorial responsibilities and reviewing for several national and international journals and publishing houses. She has published two books and more than 70 research articles published in refereed journals and books. Saswata Narayan Biswas is a professor at the Institute of Rural Management, Anand (IRMA). He has over 35 years of experience in research, teaching, executive training, consulting, including industry experience. He has been a visiting faculty member at several universities (e.g., the University of South Australia, GB Pant Institute of Social Science, KIIT University, etc.). He is the chief editor of the International Journal of Rural Management (Sage Publications). He has authored over 50 research papers, published in refereed journals, book chapters, and working papers/monographs. He was the President of the National Academy of Psychology (NAOP) and a member-at-large of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP).