The newest edition of this highly successful text takes the best features from previous editions and makes them better-livelier, more manageable, and easier to understand. William Buskist joins Neil R. Carlson as a co-author and, together, they present a new organization that emphasizes the biological foundations of behavior while continuing to display a clarity of writing, level of scholarship, and quality of illustration that is unparalleled in the field.

Psychology presented as the science it is.

Throughout the text, the authors treat psychology as a dynamic, fascinating experimental and natural science. The text emphasizes how the various subdisciplines are interrelated and presents research applications as well as the research itself. Students are continually asked to use the discovery method and participate in the research process, learning and applying the scientific method. In this way, they are better able to visualize and appreciate what the work of the scientist is really like. The "Evaluating Scientific Issues" sections, in particular, encourage students to act as scientists in thinking critically about different aspects and manifestations of psychology.

Solid research combined with real-life examples

In keeping with the authors' belief that behavior be presented within the context of its adaptive significance, the text continually relates the latest research to applications from everyday life. Students readily make the connection between scientific findings cited in the book and psychological issues they might have seen or experienced in their own lives.

Engaging writing style and accessible presentation

The authors, both exceptionally strong writers, present information in a lively, personal narrative that directly involves the reader. Information is presented clearly and logically, broken down into small, easy-to-digest segments with numerous learning aids to ensure comprehension. By speaking directly to the reader, the authors are able to convey even the most complex issues without oversimplification. The authors anticipate students' questions and provide them with answers. Gimmick free, without distracting boxes, the text's overall design complements the writing, carefully integrating narrative with top-quality illustration.

New! Chapter on Heredity & Behavior

Addressing the growing importance of the biological roots of psychology and behavior, this completely new chapter provides expanded coverage of the role of natural selection and evolution in human behavior. Coverage is up to the minute throughout and includes clear and cogent discussion of topics such as.

New! A full chapter on language

The Fifth Edition has expanded its coverage of language, devoting an entire chapter to the subject, with.

New! Chapter on health psychology

Featuring the latest research on life-style, stress, and health, this brand new chapter includes coverage of.

New! "Biology and Culture" essays

Ideal starting points for discussing important cross-cultural and multicultural issues and practice, these all-new sections illustrate the powerful interplay of biology (evolution, genetics, and physiology) and culture (learning, experience, and socialization.) Examples include: thinking critically about ethnocentricism, environmental effects on brain development, and the importance of understanding intelligence in a cultural context.

"Evaluating Scientific Issues" essays

The scientific approach to psychology is emphasized with this popular critical thinking feature from the last edition. Timely issues, usually stated in the form of an assertion with supporting evidence, are presented. The evidence is critically evaluated and contradictory evidence is presented, with a final (sometimes tentative) conclusion. Examples include: genetics of alcoholism, self-help tapes, hypnosis, and criminal investigation.

New! Chapter previews

Designed to engage students' interest, much like a movie sneak preview, these surveys clearly present the scope of the chapter, giving students a survey of what the chapter discusses.

Opening vignettes

Issues relevant to the subject matter of a chapter-including neurological or behavioral disorders-are illustrated in high-interest vignettes, presented directly after the chapter preview.

Interim Summaries

Carlson continues this highly successful feature which breaks information down into manageable segments, allowing for thorough coverage of the material without overwhelming students. Following every major section of the text, the summaries are highlighted by the text's outstanding design, aiding review.

New! Thought questions

Each interim summary is followed by questions designed to stimulate critical thinking and entice students to apply what they have learned to familiar, everyday issues.

New! Running marginal glossary

Key terms, along with their definitions, are presented in the margins at the point where they are first introduced. Students can now check the meaning of words as they read-and more easily review the terms when preparing for exams.

Revised! Table of contents

The table of contents has been reorganized to reflect contemporary preferences about the order of classroom presentation.


Carlson Homepage | A&B Homepage | Instructors Resource Area


Allyn and Bacon © 1997
ab_webmaster@abacon.com