This innovative volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the major developments of social psychological theories that have taken place over the past half century, and establishes a framework for creating connections across this vast and fascinating field. Authored by leading international experts, each chapter represents a personal and historical narrative of the theory's development including the inspirations, critical junctures, and problem-solving efforts that effected theoretical choices and determined the theory's impact and its evolution. Unique to this volume, these narratives provide a rich background for understanding how theories are created, nurtured, and shaped over time, and examining their unique contribution to the field as a whole. To examine its practical impact, each theory is evaluated in terms of its applicability to better understanding and solving critical social issues and problems. The SAGE Handbook of Theories of Social Psychology is an essential resource for researchers and students of social psychology and related disciplines.