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Understanding Abnormal Psychology
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Understanding Abnormal Psychology
Clinical and Biological Perspectives

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May 2013 | 480 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

This textbook presents a thorough understanding of abnormal psychology for undergraduate students with a focus on the integration of psychology, biology and health. It goes beyond a descriptive overview of clinical disorders to provide a critical appreciation of the multifaceted aspects of mental illness. Each disorder is clearly and succinctly explained with the support of case studies. These examples are then used to introduce students to the debates surrounding current research, the biology of abnormal disorders and standards of treatment. The bridge between the biological elements of brain functioning and the psychological mechanisms that are responsible for coping and adjustment is thoroughly explored. This valuable consideration of the range of elements involved in the diagnosis and treatment of clinical disorders gives students a broad and critical understanding of this complex and fascinating field.

Understanding Abnormal Psychology: Clinical and Biological Perspectives is a core textbook for undergraduate students taking courses in abnormal or clinical psychology.


 
Chapter 1: Defining abnormal behaviour
 
Chapter 2: Models of Abnormal Behaviour
 
Chapter 3: Psychology of Disorders
 
Chapter 4: Physiology of Abnormal Behaviour
 
Chapter 5: Genetics and Environmental Factors
 
Chapter 6: Assessment, Diagnosis, Research Methods and Ethics
 
Chapter 7: Child Development and Abnormal Psychology
 
Chapter 8: Child Disorders and Psychopathology
 
Chapter 9: Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
 
Chapter 10: Mood Disorders
 
Chapter 11: Anxiety Disorders
 
Chapter 12: Personality Disorders
 
Chapter 13: Substance-Related Disorders
 
Chapter 14: Alzheimer's, Cognitive Disorders and Disorders Related to Aging

Supplements

Companion Website




For Lecturers:

  • Test bank
  • PowerPoint slides

For Students:

  • Flashcard glossary
  • Interactive multiple-choice questions

‘This is a very comprehensive text which provides detailed, yet accessible, coverage of abnormal psychology. The author has a clear command of the subject matter, yet also demonstrates a critical appreciation of some of the more contentious issues within mental health. The written content is superbly accompanied by innovative diagrams and illustrations which greatly enhance the pedagogical features of this book’
Dr Philip John Tyson
University of Wales, Newport


'From the perspective of a practitioner and professor, this book contributes very well to the teaching of abnormal psychology by integrating the biological perspectives. Through detailed chapters that educate the 'non-scientist' on complex topics such as genetics, psychophysiology and neurochemistry, through the use of well-organized visual models, tables and down-to-earth descriptions, the average advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate student will emerge well equipped with an expanded knowledge base of concepts that are often intimidating to those who do not have a proclivity for grasping science. The captivating case studies and integration of these case studies throughout the chapter hold the readers interest'

Victoria Comerchero
Graduate School of Psychology, Touro College, New York

Excellent book that explains abnormal psychology really well

Ms Lucy Helen Anacleto
Social Science, Coventry University Scarborough Campus
May 20, 2020

This provides a clear and account of biological perspective of abnormal behaviour. A very useful resources for students to gain in-depth knowledge and understanding

Mrs Michele Ponting
Access to Higher Education, Portslade Aldridge Community Academy
September 30, 2020

I used this text for a previous Abnormal Psychology course. I like how easy it is to understand, and I use the accompanying materials like the slides and test banks to help with the course.

Professor Una Henry
Social Science , Seton Hill University
February 19, 2016

This book offers up to date information on research into mental health issues in a 'user friendly' style. It is well set out and is easy to follow It also recommends supplementary texts and has a great companion website offering valuable resources for both student and tutor alike.

Mrs Jennie McCombe
SISTAD, William Booth College
May 8, 2015

Easy to read, for academic purposes the structure is not as clear as it could be. However a great supplemental text for students.

Ms S Windham
Higher Education, Access and Couselling , South Essex College
December 5, 2014

Excellent resource for this area.

Dr Gavin Oxburgh
Division of Psychology, Newcastle University
May 16, 2014

A well written and solid text book applicable for many students on health programmes. The text however is too focussed on clinical and biological perspectives for the modules I deliver.

Mr Peter Leadbetter
Faculty of Health, Edge Hill University
April 3, 2014

This book builds on the concepts the students have learnt about in their first year. Well laid out text

Ms Aine McHugh
School of Applied Social Science, University College Dublin
March 20, 2014

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 12: Personality Disorders


Sage College Publishing

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