Approaches to Psychology

The third edition of this best-selling textbook provides students with a clear, concise account of what psychology is and how it came to be that way. Unlike many introductory texts which offer encyclopaedic but often unfocussed collections of facts, this book gives a coherent framework for understanding the discipline of psychology based on five major approaches or perspectives: biological, behaviourist, cognitive, psychodynamic, and humanistic. Beginning with a discussion of perceptual processes, the origins of approaches within psychology and methods of research, the book goes on to look at the assumptions, methods and theories associated with each of the five approaches. In addition, it considers issues in developmental, social and abnormal behaviour in order to provide a better understanding of the similarities and differences between these approaches. The book is designed as a textbook, with both student and teacher in mind. It contains many aids to learning such as: definitions of key concepts; discussion points and questions; chapter summaries; annotated suggestions for further reading; an extensive glossary and bibliography. The third edition has been revised and updated, concluding discussion of significant recent topics like evolutionary psychology and recovered memories of abuse. There are also more questions and discussion points, more illustrations and an extended glossary. This should be suitable for students studying psychology and for those seeking an overview of the subject as part of a wider programme of study.