"Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology" (8th Edition) by Ronald J. Comer provides a comprehensive overview of abnormal psychology, integrating the latest research findings and clinical practices. Here’s a detailed summary of the book:
1. Introduction to Abnormal Psychology
1.1
Defining Abnormal Psychology
• Concept of Abnormality: Defines abnormal psychology and explores what constitutes abnormal behavior, including deviations from statistical norms, societal norms, and personal distress.
• Historical Perspectives: Reviews historical views on mental illness, from ancient supernatural theories to modern scientific approaches.
1.2 Approaches to Understanding Abnormal Behavior
• Biological Perspective: Examines the role of genetics, neurobiology, and brain functioning in the development of mental disorders.
• Psychological Perspectives: Discusses psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and existential theories.
• Sociocultural Perspectives: Considers how cultural, social, and environmental factors contribute to mental health issues.
2. Research Methods in Abnormal Psychology
2.1 Research Designs
• Experimental Research: Details the use of experimental methods, including random assignments and control groups, to determine causation.
• Correlational Research: Explains correlation studies and their limitations in establishing causation.
• Case Studies: Discusses the strengths and limitations of case studies in providing in-depth insights into individual cases.
2.2 Ethical Considerations
• Ethics in Research: Reviews ethical issues related to conducting research with human participants, including informed consent and confidentiality.
3. Classification and Diagnosis
3.1 Diagnostic Classification Systems
• DSM-5 Overview: Provides an overview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and its role in diagnosing mental disorders.
• ICD-10: Briefly discusses the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) as an alternative classification system.
3.2 Diagnostic Criteria and Categories
• Major Diagnostic Categories: Reviews key diagnostic categories, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and personality disorders.
• Assessment Tools: Examines tools and techniques used in the assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders, including clinical interviews and psychological tests.
4. Anxiety Disorders
4.1 Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Describes the symptoms, diagnosis, and prevalence of GAD.
• Treatment Approaches: Discusses cognitivebehavioral therapy (CBT), medication, and other treatments.
4.2 Specific Phobias
• Types and Features: Identifies different types of specific phobias and their features.
• Treatment Strategies: Covers exposure therapy and other treatment methods.
4.3 Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Reviews the symptoms and diagnostic criteria for panic disorder and agoraphobia.
• Treatment Options: Examines effective treatments, including CBT and medication.
4.4 Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Discusses the symptoms of OCD, including obsessions and compulsions.
• Treatment Approaches: Looks at CBT, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), and pharmacotherapy.
5. Mood Disorders
5.1 Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Outlines the symptoms and diagnostic criteria for MDD.
• Treatment Options: Discusses various treatments, including antidepressant medications and psychotherapy.
5.2 Bipolar Disorder
• Types and Features: Differentiates between bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder.
• Treatment Approaches: Examines mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, and other treatments.
6. Psychotic Disorders
6.1
Schizophrenia
• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Provides an overview of the symptoms of schizophrenia, including delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
• Treatment Strategies: Discusses antipsychotic medications, psychosocial interventions, and rehabilitation.
6.2
Other Psychotic Disorders
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: Reviews the characteristics and treatment of brief psychotic disorder.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Discusses schizoaffective disorder and its treatment options.