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ellacat11's review against another edition
informative
fast-paced
4.0
Good basic intro to a lot of key ideas, theories, and people in psychology and related disciplines. Some of the claims are pretty broad and general which isn’t a problem, but there are not citations or even a reference list which is frustrating and takes away from the credibility of the book, plus makes it harder if you want to learn more about any of the ideas. They have a resource list at the end but they’re just suggested materials for continued study, not references. There are also certain sections with some problematic language or ideas. Most of them are outdated and explain that the idea has been disproven or is no longer widely accepted, but some are not (primarily using terms “sane” vs. “insane” in context but without disclaimer and the section on Autism as “extreme male brains” and using Asperger’s Syndrome, discounting issues in those areas. Though some of these issues have gained traction since the book was published in 2011).
The glossary for each chapter is a nice resource, and the chapters are organized by theme but having some sort of timeline that shows how the different theories relate and build on each other chronologically would be very helpful.
Overall, it’s a good basic intro and quick reference when trying to remember or keep straight major theories and people, it does essentially what it says it will. But I think that there was a missed opportunity to go just a bit further to add credibility.
The glossary for each chapter is a nice resource, and the chapters are organized by theme but having some sort of timeline that shows how the different theories relate and build on each other chronologically would be very helpful.
Overall, it’s a good basic intro and quick reference when trying to remember or keep straight major theories and people, it does essentially what it says it will. But I think that there was a missed opportunity to go just a bit further to add credibility.
Content Warnings
Minor: Forced institutionalization, Physical abuse, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , Panic attacks/disorders, Chronic illness, Emotional abuse, Addiction, Death of parent, Animal cruelty, Drug use, Mental illness, and Child abuse
mugren's review against another edition
2.0
It's a table of contents of popular psychology that'll get you heading in the right path.
janedallaway's review against another edition
4.0
A great introduction to psychology. Lots of subjects to get an overview of. Obviously lacking in detail but a good introduction. And a good way to work out which bits are especially interesting.