Exploring Psychology in Modules, 12th Edition by
David G. Myers and Nathan DeWall is an accessible and modular approach to introductory psychology that breaks down complex topics into manageable sections. This structure allows readers to engage with the content in focused "modules," each covering a specific concept or theme in psychology. The book presents psychology as both a science and a practical field, combining research-backed information with real-world applications.
Modules 1-3: Psychology’s Roots, Critical Thinking, and Research Methods
The book opens with the historical and conceptual foundations of psychology, explaining how it evolved from a philosophical inquiry into a scientific discipline. Influential figures such as Wilhelm Wundt, William James, and Sigmund Freud are introduced, along with the major perspectives that shape modern psychology, like biological, behavioral, cognitive, and social-cultural approaches.
Myers and DeWall emphasize the scientific method, including critical thinking, experimentation, and ethical considerations. They describe research methodologies such as experiments, case studies, and correlational studies and stress the importance of evidence-based practices in psychology.
Modules 4-6: The Biology of Behavior
These modules cover the biological basis of behavior, exploring the anatomy of the brain and nervous system. Myers and DeWall introduce neurons, neurotransmitters, and the structure of the brain, including the functions of various brain regions. They explain how communication occurs within the nervous system and the role of hormones in behavior. The authors delve into genetics and epigenetics, highlighting how both nature and nurture contribute to behavior and mental processes.
Modules 7-9: Consciousness and the Two-Track Mind
The concept of consciousness is explored in-depth, examining its many forms, including sleep, dreams, and altered states. Myers and DeWall explain the
stages of sleep, the functions of dreaming, and common sleep disorders like insomnia and narcolepsy. They also cover consciousness as a dualtrack system that includes both conscious and unconscious processes, and they discuss hypnosis, meditation, and the effects of psychoactive drugs on altering states of consciousness.
Modules 10-13: Human Development Across the Life Span
These modules guide readers through the journey of human development from prenatal stages to late adulthood. Topics include cognitive, emotional, and social changes across different life stages, referencing developmental theories from Piaget, Erikson, and Kohlberg. Myers and DeWall discuss milestones in infancy and childhood, adolescent development and identity formation, and the challenges of aging.
Emphasis is placed on the balance of genetic and environmental influences on development.
Modules 14-16: Gender, Sexuality, and the Self
These sections discuss the biological and social dimensions of gender and sexuality. Topics include
the differences between sex and gender, gender roles, and how sexual orientation and gender identity are influenced by a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors. Myers and DeWall promote inclusivity and understanding, emphasizing respect for diversity in gender and sexual identity.
Modules 17-20: Sensation and Perception
These modules explore how sensory information is processed by the brain, focusing on vision, hearing, and other senses. Concepts like sensory adaptation, perceptual organization, and the processes involved in interpreting sensory input are discussed. Myers and DeWall explain the role of experience and expectations in shaping perception and introduce phenomena such as optical illusions to demonstrate how perception can be influenced by various factors.
Modules 21-24: Learning and Conditioning
Learning theories, including classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning, are presented with real-life applications. The authors cover the foundational work of Pavlov, Skinner, and
Bandura, discussing how rewards, punishments, and social models affect behavior. These concepts are linked to practical applications, such as behavioral therapy, education, and parenting.
Modules 25-28: Memory
Memory processes—encoding, storage, and retrieval—are explored in detail. Myers and DeWall explain short-term, long-term, and working memory, and discuss why we forget and how we remember. The modules include information on memory construction, misinformation, and how memories can be distorted. Techniques for improving memory and dealing with issues like false memories are also discussed.
Modules 29-32: Thinking, Language, and Intelligence
These modules cover higher cognitive processes, such as problem-solving, creativity, and decisionmaking. The authors explore language acquisition, cognitive biases, and the role of language in shaping thought. The concept of intelligence is examined from various angles, including the influence of genetics,
cultural differences, and intelligence testing. Theories by Gardner, Sternberg, and others are presented, along with discussions on emotional intelligence.
Modules 33-36: Motivation and Emotion
Myers and DeWall discuss different theories of motivation, from biological drives to psychological needs. Topics include hunger, sexual motivation, and the need for achievement. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is used to illustrate motivational priorities, and self-determination theory is highlighted as an approach to understanding intrinsic motivation. The physiological and psychological aspects of emotions are also covered, emphasizing cultural influences on emotional expression and experience.
Modules 37-40: Stress, Health, and Well-Being
These modules address the impact of stress on physical and mental health, discussing the physiological stress response, coping mechanisms, and the benefits of positive psychology. Myers and DeWall explore the role of resilience, mindfulness, and lifestyle choices in maintaining health. Topics like
immune function, social support, and lifestyle medicine illustrate the connections between psychology and well-being.
Modules 41-44: Personality
The authors introduce various theories of personality, including psychoanalytic, humanistic, trait, and social-cognitive perspectives. Myers and DeWall describe Freud’s theories of the unconscious mind and defense mechanisms, as well as humanistic approaches by Rogers and Maslow that emphasize personal growth and self-actualization. The Big Five personality traits are discussed, as well as the impact of genetics and environment on personality development.
Modules 45-48: Social Psychology
Social psychology explores how individuals are influenced by others and the social context. Topics include conformity, group behavior, prejudice, and aggression. Classic studies, such as Milgram’s obedience experiments and Asch’s conformity study, are discussed to illustrate social influences on
behavior. Myers and DeWall also cover prosocial behaviors and methods to reduce prejudice, encouraging readers to apply social psychology to promote positive social interactions.
Modules 49-52: Psychological Disorders
These modules provide an overview of psychological disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Myers and DeWall discuss the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and highlight the stigma surrounding mental illness. The biopsychosocial model is used to explain how biological, psychological, and social factors contribute to mental health disorders.
Modules 53-56: Therapy
Therapeutic approaches, including cognitivebehavioral, psychodynamic, and biomedical therapies, are explored. The authors discuss the effectiveness of different therapies, the role of the therapeutic relationship, and ethical considerations in treatment. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and medication
management are explained, with a focus on evidencebased practices.
Modules
57-59: Applications
of Psychology in Real Life
In these final modules, Myers and DeWall demonstrate the practical applications of psychology in various fields, including education, business, health, and environmental issues. Topics include the psychology of work, consumer behavior, and strategies for fostering sustainable behavior. The authors show how psychological principles can be applied to improve workplace dynamics, health behaviors, and social responsibility.
Additional Features
• Critical Thinking Exercises: Each module includes questions that encourage readers to reflect on the material and connect it to their own experiences.
• Real-Life Examples and Applications: The book frequently uses examples from daily life, current
events, and pop culture to make psychological concepts relatable.
• Cultural and Diversity Considerations: Myers and DeWall incorporate cultural perspectives, emphasizing the importance of understanding psychology in a global and diverse context.
• Updated Research: The 12th edition includes recent studies and advancements in psychology, keeping the content relevant and up-to-date.
• Self-Assessment Tools: Throughout the book, quizzes and checklists help readers gauge their understanding and reinforce their knowledge.
Exploring Psychology in Modules, 12th Edition is a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to psychology, organized in a way that allows for flexibility in learning. By breaking down the content into focused modules, Myers and DeWall provide a structured approach that caters to different learning styles and allows readers to explore topics in a sequential or selective manner. This edition effectively combines theoretical frameworks with practical
applications, critical thinking prompts, and engaging examples, making it an ideal choice for students new to psychology.
Find the Full Original Textbook (PDF) in the link below: CLICK