Classification and Diagnosis of Psychological Abnormality / Edition 1

by Susan Cave

Overview

How is psychological abnormality recognised? How many different mental disorders are there, and what are their characteristics? Although there are established guidelines for clinicians working in this area, these have been subject to many criticisms. Exploring how views on this subject have changed over time, and how they vary in different societies, poses important questions about our current practices.
This book provides a brief overview of the current definitions and various explanations for psychological abnormality and then focuses on how society diagnoses and classifies behaviour that is deemed to be 'unusual'. Three key areas of the topic are covered: the procedures involved in the diagnosis and classification of mental disorders (such as schizophrenia); research into the history and origins of multiple personality disorder; and a discussion of the implications of cultural variability (including culture-bound syndromes) for the classification and diagnosis of psychological abnormality.
Classification and Diagnosis of Abnormal Psychology is an introductory text suitable for students and teachers of the AQA Psychology A2 specification and is also useful for other groups who work in the field of mental disorder, such as nurses, social workers and therapists.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415231022
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	03/14/2002
Series:	Routledge Modular Psychology
Pages:	228
Product dimensions:	5.06(w) x 7.81(h) x (d)
Age Range:	17 - 18 Years

About the Author

Sue Cave is a senior examiner and coursework moderator for A-Level Psychology and a lecturer at the University of Kent.

Table of Contents

Introduction. The Classification, Diagnosis and Assessment of Mental Disorders. Multiple Personality Disorder. Culture-bound Syndromes. Conclusion.

Editorial Reviews

Reviewer: Nicholas Greco IV, MS, BCETS, CATSM, FAAETS (C3 Education and Research, Inc.)
Description: This book is part of a modular psychology series on atypical development and abnormal behavior which can be implemented as a stand alone text or an initial primer and thus supplemented with additional works in abnormal psychology. The book provides a solid introductory understanding of abnormal psychology in a student and instructor-friendly format.
Purpose: The purpose is to provide the reader with a complete yet concise overview of the definitions, models, and controversial issues of abnormal psychology. The author's objective is worthy because there are a considerable number of abnormal psychology books to choose from, but few which can be easily broken down and integrated to fit instructor needs. The author unquestionably meets her objective.
Audience: The book is intended mainly as an introductory book for students and clinicians in psychology, nursing, and social work. The book is easily adaptable and essential for laying a strong foundation in abnormal psychology. The author has a strong academic background, is considerably credible, and has a uniquely brilliant writing style.
Features: The book covers three main areas: the first discusses the procedures involved in the diagnosis and classification of mental disorders, the second delves into the research of the history and origins of multiple personality disorder (MPD), and the third discusses the implications of cultural and subcultural issues in abnormality. Highlights include the excellent description of MPD which is a must-read for clinicians, the chapter on study aids to improve essay skills, and the quick reference glossary. Of even greater importance to students and professors alike is the considerably low cost of such a valuable teaching and learning tool.
Assessment: This is a masterfully crafted book written and designed with both students and professors in mind. The material is concise, manageable, straightforward, and an excellent primer for setting the standard in providing a solid foundation necessary for abnormal psychology. This book is highly recommended for its clarity, consistency, and cost.

Doody's Review Service

'This is a clearly written book which gives an excellent introduction to the classification and diagnoses of psychological abnormality ... the book is user-friendly and contains many features which students will like including chapter menus, chapter summaries, sample essays, and a glossary of key words. I recommend Sue Cave's book highly.' - Alan Carr, University College Dublin

From the Publisher

4 Stars! from Doody