Understanding Abnormal Psychology

This textbook provides a highly readable account of the current state of knowledge of the origins and nature of many psychological disorders. Acknowledgements.

1. Introduction.

2. Anxiety Disorders.

3. Eating Disorders.

4. Affective Disorders.

5. Schizophrenia.

6. Substance Abuse.

7. Sexual Disorders.

8. Organic Disorders.

9. Learning Disability.

References.

Author Index.

Subject Index.

"This is a clear, well-written textbook that describes a range of psychological disorders and their associated treatment. The layout of this book is excellent. Case illustrations and major experiments are allocated separate shaded boxes, and invariably attract the reader's attention. This book provides an interesting, concise overview of the different topics in abnormal psychology. It is a welcome addition to the Blackwell Series on Basic Psychology and achieves its goal of providing accessible information about the core area, whilst also conveying the flavour and excitement of the subject." Padmal de Silva. Behavior Research and Therapy

‘Neil Frude writes in a very clear and precise manner which treats the subject material in a systematic and scientific way, while leaving it accessible to the reader who may be new to psychology. This book will be an excellent and welcome addition to teaching resources for abnormal psychology.’ – Professor R. Johnston, University of Birmingham

Dr Neil Frude is a clinical psychologist and Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychology, University of Wales, College of Cardiff. He has been lecturing on abnormal psychology courses for over 20 years and has also worked as a counsellor throughout that time.

Understanding Abnormal Psychology offers an animated and comprehensive introduction to common psychological problems, and guides beginning students in both psychology and clinical psychology through theoretical debates and practical therapies. The book assumes no prior knowledge of the subject and is written in a clear and non-technical way.

The author begins by considering the distinction between ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ behaviour and introduces issues related to the classification, diagnosis and assessment of psychological disorders. He then goes on to explore and discuss a range of topics including anxiety disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia and sexual dysfunction, describing symptoms and theories of cause, and providing information on possible approaches to treatment.