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Sunday 5 June 2011

30 second psychology by Christian Jarrett (Editor)


The key ideas in Psychology explained, with colour illustrations, in half a minute. Pavlov's Dogs, Psychoanalysis, Milgram's Obedience Study, and Beck's Cognitive Therapy? Sure, you know what they all mean. That is, you've certainly heard of them. But do you know enough about these psychology theories to join a dinner party debate or dazzle the bar with your knowledge? 30-Second Psychology takes the top 50 strands of thinking in this fascinating field, and explains them to the general reader in half a minute, using nothing more than two pages, 300 words, and one picture. The inner workings of the human mind will suddenly seem a lot more fun, and along the way we meet many of the luminaries in the field, including William James, Aaron Beck, and (of course) Sigmund Freud. From Behaviorism to Cognitivism, what better way to get a handle on your inner demons?

As an Open University student, in my first year of on Early Years studies degree I was intrigued by this book. There are lots of theories about how children develop psychology and anything that would help me to understand and remember them is a great bonus to me!

There are 50 psychology theories explained in the book all in 30 seconds, or over 1-2 pages. The book has seven sections into which the theories are split: old school, new school; growth and change; decision making and emotions; social psychology; ways we differ; disordered minds and thoughts and language. Each section begins with a glossary, which explains in basic English. Each theory has a three second psyche and a 3 minute analysis explanation which are very handy for revision. There is also a more in depth explanation which gives the basic information and can be used to research further information as necessary.

I would recommend this book to psychology students of all levels, along with students of child development etc.

Thank you to Michael from The School Run Forum for sending me this book to review.

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