Reviewing Scientific Works In Psychology

As one of the contributors to this volume points out, great peer reviewers are among the unsung heroes of academia. Unfortunately, few psychologists receive training in reviewing the works of their colleagues. Unconstructive, or worse still, mean-spirited reviews are more common than they should be. This volume brings together highly experienced reviewers who explain what a good scholarly review should do, share their experiences, and take the reader step-by-step through the review process. The contributors discuss how to review various types of journal articles, book chapters, and grants and contract proposals. Both novices and seasoned reviewers will find food for thought in this book and will be shown how to write the kind of critique they themselves would like to receive. Academics advance in their careers by publishing their work in peer-reviewed journals and by providing "editorial guidance" in the form of peer reviews for various journals and books. In the "publish or perish" culture, knowing how to write and receive review feedback is an essential skill. This volume teaches psychology graduate students and young psychology professionals how to review the psychology writings of others. It takes the reader step-by-step through how to write a review and stresses the importance of constructive criticism and explains the difference between a helpful and an unconstructive review.