Abnormal Psychology and Psychotherapy - (3rd Edition)

Author: Susan Nolen-Hoeksema
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: From the content perspective, the book can be divided into four main parts. Part one provides a general introduction to abnormal behavior, covering chapters 1 to 5. In Chapter 1, A Glimpse at Abnormal Behavior, the author first discusses what constitutes abnormal behavior. Cultural relativists argue that social norms must be used to determine whether a behavior is normal. Some scholars define abnormal behavior as rare behavior or behavior that causes subjective discomfort to the individual. Others believe that only behaviors caused by psychological disorders qualify as abnormal. In Chapter 2, Modern Theories of Abnormal Behavior, the author introduces theories about abnormal behavior. Biological theories suggest that psychological disorders are caused by three factors: structural variations in the brain, dysfunction in the neurotransmitter system, and defective genes. In psychological research, psychodynamic theories propose that unconscious conflicts are the underlying cause of psychological disorders. Behaviorist theories argue that individual behaviors are reinforced or punished, ultimately leading to the development of psychological symptoms. Cognitive theories assert that people's interpretations of their environment influence their emotional and behavioral disorders. Humanistic and existential theories posit that psychological disorders arise because individuals are unable to pursue their own thoughts, instead being forced to conform to others' desires. In Chapter 3, Advances in Research on Abnormal Behavior, the author first introduces the challenges researchers face when studying abnormal behavior. Then, the book explains scientific research methods and their characteristics, detailing various approaches such as case studies, correlational studies, continuous variable research, cross-sectional studies, longitudinal studies, experimental research, and treatment outcome research. In Chapter 4, Assessment and Diagnosis of Abnormal Behavior, the author emphasizes the importance of collecting information for accurate assessment and introduces the content of such information, including current symptoms, recent experiences, physical health, medication and alcohol use, personal and family history of psychological disorders, and cognitive functioning.
The second part provides specific introductions to various common abnormal behaviors, covering chapters 6 to 17, describing them from multiple perspectives such as clinical symptoms, underlying mechanisms, diagnostic criteria, psychological treatment, and pharmacological treatment. The author first introduces clinically common anxiety disorders: panic disorder, phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as related dissociative and somatic disorders. In Chapter 11, Schizophrenia, the author focuses on the biological theories of schizophrenia, explaining its biological causes and providing a detailed introduction to the use of medication as the primary treatment for schizophrenia. In Chapter 12, Personality Disorders, the author refers to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV (DSM-IV) and categorizes personality disorders into three types—paranoid personality disorder, dramatic emotional disorder, and anxious-tense personality disorder—based on their symptoms, each discussed separately. In Chapter 13, Childhood Disorders, the author introduces common psychological disorders in children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder, separation anxiety disorder, enuresis, and learning disorders. In Chapter 14, Cognitive Disorders and Lifelong Issues, the book explores the relationship between cognitive disorders like dementia, amnesia, and delirium and their connection to aging.
The third part is Chapter 18, The Relationship Between Psychology and Physical Health, which, from the perspective of health psychology, argues that the body, mind, and environment are closely interconnected and attempts to explain the characteristics and importance of these influences. Health psychologists believe that personality factors, problem-solving styles, stress-inducing events, and health-related behaviors play significant roles in the onset and progression of diseases.
The fourth part is Chapter 19, Mental Health and Related Social Policies and Laws, which discusses the basic concept of the insanity defense system, which holds that individuals should not be held responsible for crimes committed while mentally incompetent. In discussing unconscious behavior and human rights, the book points out that from a psychological perspective, individuals are considered blameless when they act unconsciously due to psychological confusion or pose a potential danger to themselves or others.
In summary, this book is an outstanding work in psychology, and I was fortunate to read it first. I highly recommend it to my colleagues in the fields of psychological counseling and therapy in China, as well as to psychology teachers and students at universities. I believe everyone will benefit greatly from it.