This series delves into the fascinating realm of human psychology, exploring the drivers behind our thoughts and behaviors. Each volume expertly debunks popular myths and pseudoscience surrounding life's biggest questions. Written by leading experts, the books confront common wisdom with research-based knowledge. Readers will discover how psychology enriches our understanding of the world, encouraging a fresh perspective on familiar subjects.
Citing the latest research, and exploring the cognitive, social and emotional triggers which lead us to make poor decisions around food,The Psychology of Dietingbuilds to provide a guide to how we can change our behaviour to lose weight and lead healthier lives.
The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories presents an engaging introduction to the origins of widespread belief in conspiracy theories. Through a discussion of the history of conspiracy theories, the book debunks the myth that they are a modern phenomenon, exploring the broad contexts they can appear in from politics to the workplace andconsidering why some people are more susceptible to these beliefs than others.
Psychology and sex -- Sex and sexuality -- "Proper" sex -- "Normal" sex -- Sexualization! -- Further resources -- Index
This book covers key concepts relating to the psychology of music including the evolutionary purpose of music, the processing of music, musical ability, and musical skills. It also examines the impact music has on everyday life and on health and well-being, and the benefits of music to intellectual functioning.
Does religion positively affect well-being? What leads to fundamentalism? Do religious beliefs make us more moral? The Psychology of Religion explores the often contradictory ideas people have about religion and religious faiths, spirituality, fundamentalism, and atheism. The book examines whether we choose to be religious, or whether it is down to factors such as genes, environment, personality, cognition, and emotion. It analyses religion's effects on morality, health, and social behavior and asks whether religion will survive in our modern society. Offering a balanced view, The Psychology of Religion shows that both religiosity and atheism have their own psychological costs and benefits, with some of them becoming more salient in certain environments.
The Psychology of Social Media will examine the core features of social media services - profiles, newsfeeds, connections, media and so on - and explain the psychological aspects of how they are used. This is the ideal introductory resource for students on cyberpsychology courses, as well as general readers interested in this topic.
From the development of skills through learning and practice, to how self-confidence and decision-making can be honed to boost our expertise, The Psychology of Performance is an invaluable account for anyone who wants to perform to their best.
The Psychology of Gardening is the first book of its kind to explore gardening from a psychological perspective. Research shows that positive effects of gardening arise from both active physical participation and experiencing nearby nature. The book highlights how both these elements contribute to our understanding of the benefits of gardening. Each chapter reviews a different aspect of gardening experience, demonstrating how individual, evolutionary and social psychological theories offer new insights into a very familiar activity. The book will be of great interest to students in environmental psychology as well as members of the horticultural society and those interested in gardening.
Explores our relationship with the weather, and how it can affect our mood, behaviour, and lifestyle
Why have vampires become such a feature of modern culture? Can vampire-like conditions be explained by medical research? Is there a connection between vampirism and Freud? The Psychology of Vampires presents a captivating look at the origins of vampires in myth and history, and the psychological theories which try to explain why they fascinate us. It traces the development of vampires from the first ever vampire tale, written by John Polidori in 1819, to their modern cultural legacy. Together with historical detail about Polidori's eventful life, the book also examines the characteristics of vampires, and explores how and why people might identify as vampires today. From sanguinarians who drink blood, to psychic vampires who suck the energy from those around them, The Psychology of Vampires explores the absorbing connections between vampirism and psychology, theology, medicine and culture.
Western societies today are facing a crisis of trust. Politicians, journalists, police officers, church officials, CEOs: all are distrusted. Based on a series of popular Psychology Today blogs, this engaging summary reviews the psychological research on trust so that student, practitioner, and members of the public at large understand how people trust others.
The Psychology of Bullying provides a highly accessible overview about the nature of bullying, what is known about it, its possible effects, and what can be done about it. It focuses on bullying at school with special attention given to the development of cyberbullying, and a final chapter looks at bullying in other contexts. Illustrated with examples and case studies, it examines who bullies and who gets bullied, what is known about effective coping strategies, and what friends, peers and the school can do to help. It will be essential reading for students, teachers and parents looking for psychological insights into what bullying is.
Explores some commonly held beliefs regarding experiences so strange they can defy an obvious scientific explanation. The book explains how psychologists have conducted experiments to provide insight into phenomena such as clairvoyance, astrology, and alien abduction, as well as teaching us fundamental truths about human belief systems
What fascinates us about intelligence? How does intelligence impact our daily lives? Why do we sometimes fear intelligence?Human intelligence is a vital resource, yet the study of it is pervaded by neglect and misconceptions. The Psychology of Intelligence helps make sense of the contradictory social attitudes and practices in relation to intelligence that we have seen over the decades, from the idea that it drove eugenicist policies and actions in the past, to our current backlash against "experts" and critical thinking. Showing how our approach to intelligence impacts our everyday lives in educational, occupational, medical, and legal settings, the book asks if it is possible to lift the taboo and move beyond the prejudices surrounding intelligence.Challenging popular assumptions, The Psychology of Intelligence encourages us to face intelligence in ourselves and others as an important fact of life that we can all benefit from embracing more openly.
When does a harmless habit become an addition? Why do only some of us get addicted? What can make recovery possible? The Psychology of Addictionis a fascinating introduction to the psychological issues surrounding addiction and the impact they have on social policy, recovery and an addict's everyday life. The book focuses on drug and alcohol addiction and tackles topics such as whether drug use always leads to addiction and the importance of social networks to recovery. It also looks at how people can become addicted to activities like gambling, gaming and sex. In a society that still stigmatises addiction The Psychology of Addictionemphasises the importance of compassion, and provides a sensitive insight to anyone with experience of addiction.
Why should we exercise? When should we exercise? Why don't we exercise? The Psychology of Exercise separates fact from fiction, delving into key theories, ideas, and the impact of life stages on when, why, and how we exercise. It explores the barriers and motivators to exercise for children, teenagers, adults, and retirees as well as for those living with a chronic health condition. It shows how when we personalise activity programmes, exercise becomes a life-affirming, life-lengthening habit. Using real-life case studies from those who work with exercisers at all levels, The Psychology of Exercise shows us the huge value that comes from exercising in every stage of our lives.
The Psychology of Fashion provides a succinct overview of how our thinking and behavior is affected by the fashion industry, examining how fashion design can undermine healthy body image, and how psychology can inform a more sustainable perspective on the production and disposal of clothing.
The Psychology of Grief offers an overview of how psychologists have sought to explain grief and the way it is understood in different social, religious and historical contexts.
How can we explain the rise of populism in politics? What makes some people successful political leaders? What motivates us to vote the way we do? The Psychology of Politics explores how the emotions which underpin everyday life are also vital in what happens on the political stage. It draws on psychoanalytic ideas to show how fear and passion shape the political sphere in our changing societies and cultures, and examines topical social issues and events including Brexit, the changing nature of democracy, activism, and Trump in America.In a changing global political climate, The Psychology of Politics shows us how we can make sense of what drives human conduct in relation to political ideas and action.
Why do we develop extreme attitudes to others? Can our personality contribute to our prejudices? How do we reduce prejudice and discrimination? The Psychology of Prejudiceexplores different forms of prejudice and discrimination, from racial jokes to genocide. It looks at what might cause our prejudiced attitudes, including our personalities, social influences, group identity, and evolutionary factors, and how prejudice can be reduced through education, campaigning, and consciousness raising. Offering insights into a topic of great public concern and debate, The Psychology of Prejudiceshows us how we can confront our prejudiced attitudes, and contribute to greater tolerance and understanding.
How can we improve our sense of wellbeing? What explains the current wellbeing boom? What does wellbeing mean to you? The Psychology of Wellbeing offers readers tools to navigate their own wellbeing and understand what makes a 'good life'. Using self-reflection and storytelling, it explores how trust affects psychological and emotional wellbeing, considers how stress and inequality impact our psychological wellbeing, and how trends such as positive psychology influence our understanding of happiness. In a world where the 'wellness economy' is big business, The Psychology of Wellbeing shows how we can question and make sense of information sources, and sheds light on the wellness, self-care and self-help industry.
Perception and attention in driving -- Distracted driving -- Driving, risk and youth -- The effects of age on driving -- Personality and driving -- Driving while impaired -- The future of driving.
The author examines historical perspectives, and addresses the way in which the media has been and continues to be an outlet for celebrities, culminating in the role of social media and technology in our modern society. This is the ideal introduction to the psychology of celebrity for students and general readers.
Why do we enjoy art? What inspires us to create artistic works? How can brain science help us understand our taste in art? The Psychology of Art provides an eclectic introduction to the myriad ways in which psychology can help us understand and appreciate creative activities. Exploring how we perceive everything from colour to motion, the book examines art-making as a form of human behaviour that stretches back throughout history as a constant source of inspiration, conflict and conversation. It also considers how factors such as fakery, reproduction technology and sexism influence our judgements about art. By asking what psychological science has to do with artistic appreciation, The Psychology of Art introduces the reader to new ways of thinking about how we create and consume art.
Providing a brief yet thorough overview of the most famous psychological ideas and findings that influence working life today, whether they have been found to be incorrect or even partly true, The Psychology of Working Life asks two key questions: why do we work the way we do, and if work performance can be improved, at what costs are there for the individual worker?
The Psychology of Chess will provide a comprehensive introduction to the psychological aspects of one of the world's most played games. Drawing on an extensive body of literature, the book explores the cognitive functions involved in playing chess, discussing diverse topics such as perception and memory in chess thinking, pattern recognition, and skill acquisition. The book will also consider contemporary areas of research within the field, including brain training, artificial intuition, and the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in chess players.
What is terrorism? Can anyone be radicalized? How can we respond to terrorist acts? The Psychology of Terrorismseeks to explain why some acts of violence are considered terrorism, and others are not, and why some individuals may be more susceptible to engaging in radical terrorist behaviour. Debunking myths and lazy stereotypes, the book delves into some of the most shocking atrocities of our times to discuss the complex and varied psychological characteristics of individual terrorists, organised groups, and their acts. Whilst there is no simple solution, The Psychology of Terrorismshows us that a growing reverse radicalization movement and modern interventionist techniques can give us hope for the future.
What impact can video games have on players? How does psychology influence video game creation? Why do some games become cultural phenomena? The Psychology of Video Games explores the relationship between psychology and video games from the perspective of both game developers and players. It looks at how games are made and what makes them fun and successful, the benefits gaming can have on players in relation to education and healthcare, concerns over potential negative impacts such as pathological gaming, and ethics considerations. With gaming being one of the most popular forms of entertainment today, The Psychology of Video Games shows the important role psychology and the understanding of the human brain has in the development of ethical and inclusive video games.
Explores the evidence for our changing environment, and suggests that there are significant cognitive biases in how we think about, and act on climate change