The Handy Psychology Answer Book

Bridging the gap between the entertainment-focused pop psychology” on television and the dry academic research that is published in journals,The Handy Psychology Answer Book helps answer why humans do what we do through accurate scientific data presented in a lively, accessible, and engaging way. It covers the fundamentals and explains the psychology behind how people deal with money, sex, morality, family, children, aging, addiction, work, and other everyday issues. It takes a journey through the history and science of psychology and showing how psychology affects us all.

Fully revised to reflect the latest scientific researchsuch as the current DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association); the latest neurobiological theories; and the changing face of marriagethis timely reference has expanded to include information sections on the biology and evolution of emotions; technology and adolescence; bisexuality; optimism; autism; as well as a full section on the law, eyewitness testimony and police shootings.

Featuring more than 1,500 answers to questions concerning how the human mind and the science of psychology really work, this fascinating guide delivers the real facts of modern psychology, along with fun factoids and thought-provoking insights into what motivates human behavior. This intriguing exploration provides insights into the current science of the mind by answering questions such as:

How have other cultures addressed psychological issues?
Why was Freud so focused on sex?
How do twin studies help illuminate the role of genetics?
How can I maintain a healthy brain?
Why do some people hear voices that aren’t really there?
Why do children see monsters in the closet at night?
How have recent changes in technology affected adolescent development?
Why does time seem to speed up as we age?
Is it normal to argue during marriage?
Does religion make people happier?
How do we reduce social prejudice?
How has morality changed over the course of history?
What are the personality traits of people who succeed in their professions?
Why do so many politicians get trapped in scandals?
Does genetics play a role in voting behavior?
Which therapies are best for which kinds of problems?
How might the stress of police work affect decision-making in high stress situations?

With a wide range of information suitable for everyone, this is the ideal source for anyone looking to get a better understanding of psychology.The Handy Psychology Answer Book also includes a helpful glossary of terms, complete reference sources for topics discussed, and an index.

Lisa Cohen received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the City University of New York. After obtaining her degree, she worked in several hospitals in the New York City area. In 1996, she came to Beth Israel Medical Center, now Mount Sinai Beth Israel, where she is currently Professor of Psychiatry and the Director of Research for Psychology and Psychiatry. Dr. Cohen divides her time between clinical work, teaching and scientific research. She works on an inpatient unit for people with severe psychopathology but also has a private practice where she treats people with milder conditions. Dr. Cohen has published many articles and book chapters on a wide range of topics, including obsessive compulsive disorder, opiate addiction and sexual abuse. Her current research focuses on the effects of psychological trauma on personality.