Essentials of Abnormal Psychology

In this briefer version of Durand and Barlow's widely taught text, the authors explain abnormal psychology through their standard-setting integrative approach--the most modern, scientifically valid method for studying the subject. Through this integrative approach, students learn that psychological disorders are rarely caused by a single influence, but rooted in the interaction among multiple factors: biological, psychological, cultural, social, familial, and even political. A conversational writing style, consistent pedagogy, and real case profiles--95 percent from the authors' own case files--provide a realistic context for the scientific findings of the book. In addition, these features ensure that readers never lose sight of the fact that real people are behind the DSM-IV-TR criteria, the theories, and the research.