What is Psychology?
📘 About This Book
This clear and lively introduction to psychology assumes no prior knowledge of the subject. Extensively revised and updated, this third edition describes psychology as it is taught at universitues. Examples are used throughout to illustrate fundamental ideas, with a self-assessment quiz focusing readers' minds on a number of intriguing psychological problems. The differences betwen psychology, psychiatry and psychoanalysis are explained, and the professions and careers associated with psychology are explored. Suggestions for further reading and useful internet sites are included.
📖 Summary
Andrew Colman's What is Psychology offers a clear, lively, and comprehensive introduction to the vast and fascinating world of the human mind and behavior. Published in 2016 across 228 pages, this third edition has been extensively revised and updated to reflect how psychology is actually taught at modern universities, making it an ideal resource for complete beginners who assume no prior knowledge of the subject. Rather than burying the reader in dense academic jargon right from the start, Colman uses accessible examples throughout the text to illustrate fundamental psychological ideas, bringing abstract concepts to life in a way that is both engaging and intellectually rigorous. One of the primary aims of the book is to demystify the field by clearly distinguishing between related mental health and behavioral disciplines. Colman meticulously explains the differences between psychology, psychiatry, and psychoanalysis, helping readers understand the distinct training, methodologies, and philosophies that underpin each practice. Furthermore, the book looks beyond the theoretical boundaries of the classroom to explore the diverse professions and careers associated with psychology, giving aspiring students a practical look at where a psychological education can take them in the professional world. To actively engage the reader, the book incorporates a stimulating self-assessment quiz designed to focus minds on a number of intriguing psychological problems, encouraging active participation rather than passive reading. By testing their own intuitions against psychological principles, readers gain a deeper appreciation for how the human mind operates in daily life. Finally, for those whose curiosity is sparked by the introductory chapters, Colman provides carefully curated suggestions for further reading and useful internet sites, ensuring that the book serves as a launchpad for a deeper and more sustained exploration of the discipline. Through its balanced blend of academic accuracy, clear explanations, and interactive elements, this volume stands as an enduringly valuable entry point into the study of human thought and action.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Written in a clear and lively style accessible to complete beginners.
Extensively revised and updated to reflect modern university teaching.
Includes engaging self-assessment quizzes on intriguing psychological problems.
Provides helpful suggestions for further reading and useful internet sites.
⚠️ Cons
May be too foundational for readers who already hold an advanced degree in psychology.
Limited length means it can only offer an introduction rather than an exhaustive study of every subfield.
❓ FAQ
Who wrote What is Psychology? +
The book was written by Andrew Colman.
When was this third edition published? +
It was published in 2016.
How many pages does the book have? +
The book contains 228 pages.
Does the reader need prior knowledge of psychology to understand it? +
No, the book assumes no prior knowledge and serves as a clear introduction.
Does the book help with career exploration? +
Yes, it explores the various professions and careers associated with the field of psychology.
