This revised edition of A Student’s A-Z of Psychology is a response to the requirements of the modern learning environment. It provides the core psychological knowledge required for a first year course in psychology as well as information on specific skills-based topics. As an alphabetically arranged resource, it is an easy-to-use companion for the entry-level student of psychology.

Contents Include:

• Cognition: Thinking
• Consultation scenario for a psychological research project
• Consultation scenario for a stress management programme
• Consultation scenario for a study management programme
• Consultation interview
• Emotion and motivation
• Emotion: Classification of
• Emotion: Concept of
• Emotion: Theories of
• Emotional intelligence: Concept of
• Emotions: Interpretation of
• Groups: Attributes of human groups
• Groups: Differentiation of groups
• Groups: Interaction of groups
• Human nervous system: Impulse conduction in the neuron
• Human nervous system: Impulse conduction in the synapse
• Human nervous system: Structure and function
• Human nervous system: The structure of the neuron
• Individual differences in behaviour
• Information analysis: Correlation between variables
• Information analysis: Difference between groups
• Information modelling: Expandable tree structures
• Information modelling: Flow charts
• Information modelling: Graphs
• Information modeling: Visiograms
• Intelligence: Concept and measurement of
• Intelligence: Theories of
• Intelligence and creativity
• Interpersonal communication
• Interpersonal dynamics
• Interpersonal relationships
• Learning: Concept of
• Learning: Social learning
• Memory
• Motivation: The nature of motivated behaviour
• Motivation: The process of motivated behaviour
• Personality and health
• Personality concepts
• Personality theories
• Presentations
• Psychological disorders
• Psychological programme: Content for stress management
• Psychological programme for stress
• Psychological programme for study management
• Psychological programmes
• Psychological science
• Psychology: What is it all about?
• Research essays
• Self: The concept of self
• Self: The dynamics of self
• Self: The foundations of self
• Sensation and perception
• Sensation: The visual system
• Social issues

Loved by many students across South Africa, the new edition of Psychology Themes and Variations offers a superb thematic organisation together with practical applications and South African examples that assist in seeing beyond research to big-picture concepts.

The text surveys psychology's broad range of content with three aims: to illuminate the process of research and its relationship to application; to show both the unity and diversity of psychology's subject matter; and to help students master the basic concepts and principles of psychology with as little struggle as possible.

In Rocklands, Liezille Jacobs reframes psychology not only as a profession, but as a profound calling that is intertwined with personal and societal evolution. Traversing her own personal journey from her adverse childhood experiences in Rocklands, Mitchell’s Plain, to being the first black Head of Department at Rhodes University in 120 years, Jacobs illuminates the interconnectedness of personal, professional and public roles, advocating for a shift from careerism to a movement grounded in shared values and principles.

At the same time, the book makes a brave and erudite scholarly contribution to the field of psychology. Its method is unconventional but carefully considered. Those who have provided comments on the manuscript unanimously concur – this book is essential reading for students and academics, families and patriarchs in equal measure.

The transformation imperative within psychology demands a stance of activism, if not revolution, against systems of oppression. This stance urges readers to view this book not only as an academic exercise but as a profound transformative exploration of “giving psychology away”; emphasising the idea of making psychological knowledge and expertise more accessible to the general public and sharing the benefits of psychological science with society to improve people’s lives.

What does the world look like from Africa? What does it mean to think, feel, express without apology for being African? How does one teach society and children to be African – with full consciousness and pride? In institutions of learning, what would a textbook on African-centred psychology look like? How do researchers and practitioners engage in African social psychology, African-centred child development, African neuropsychology, or any area of psychology that situates African realities at the centre?

Questions such as these are what Kopano Ratele grapples with in this lyrical, philosophical and poetic treatise on practising African psychology in a decolonised world view. Employing a style common in philosophy but rarely used in psychology, the book offers thoughts about the ideas, contestation, urgency and desire around a psychological praxis in Africa for Africans.

While setting out a framework for researching, teaching and practicing African psychology, the book in part coaxes, in part commands and in part urges students of psychology, lecturers, researchers and therapists to reconsider and reach beyond their received notions of African psychology.

Introduce the latest developments in biological psychology today with the most widely used text for this area of study: Dr. James Kalat's BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY, International Edition 14E.

A best-seller for more than four decades, this book combines a high level of scholarship and thought-provoking content with a clear writing style that makes biological psychology understandable and relevant to psychology students as well as biology and pre-med majors. Amusing anecdotes, quotes from contemporary researchers, precise examples and try-it-yourself activities help convey the excitement behind biological explanations of behavior.

Dr Kalat introduces breakthrough findings with more than 500 new research references as recent as 2022. Students explore new insights into brain functions, autism, antidepressants and mental enhancement and weight-loss drugs as well as the latest on auditory changes, pain mechanisms and the olfactory effects of COVID-19.

Community psychology is an applied branch of psychology that places emphasis on understanding people in their own context, and promoting their health and wellbeing within this context. It is particularly relevant in the quest to empower people to address psychosocial problems through community development. Community psychology focuses on how theories and research are used to inform practice in South Africa.

Community psychology applies theories relevant to the study of people in South Africa’s diverse multicultural environment, delving deeper into the psychosocial problems of violence and crime, poverty and unemployment, racism and xenophobia, gender-based violence/gender equity, masculinities, community trauma, HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, child and adolescent mental health and the elderly in the community.

It develops a new perspective on interpretation of communities, resulting in meaningful engagement which can lead to real social change.

Psychology: An introduction is a comprehensive first-year psychology textbook written for South African students.

Interest is engaged through narrative introductions, research findings and relevant case studies, giving students the tools to develop their own ideas and to engage critically with the content.

The fifth edition engages more reflectively on the discipline with a greater focus on developing a decolonial and African-centred psychology, thus supporting universities with the transformation of curricula.

Our thought lives have incredible power over our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. In fact, our thoughts can either limit us to what we believe we can do or release us to experience abilities well beyond our expectations. When we choose a mindset that extends our abilities rather than placing limits on ourselves, we will experience greater intellectual satisfaction, emotional control, and physical health. The only question is . . . how?

Backed by up-to-date scientific research and biblical insight, Dr. Caroline Leaf empowers readers to take control of their thoughts in order to take control of their lives. In this practical book, readers will learn to use

• The 5-step Switch on Your Brain Learning Program, to build memory and learn effectively
• The Gift Profile, to discover the unique way they process information
• The Mindfulness Guide, to optimize their thought life and find their inner resilience

Are you increasingly distracted, demotivated and unable to focus on simple tasks?

There's a good chance your smartphone is to blame. In the always-on age of notifications, emails and the news cycle, it's easy to waste the majority of our days mindlessly scrolling. But according to psychiatric specialist and mental health guru Dr Anders Hansen, being tethered to our devices 24/7 is taking its toll on our mental wellbeing. Sleeplessness, anxiety, depression and burnout are just some of the consequences of feeling digitally overloaded.

In The Attention Fix, Hansen shares an informative guide to what unrestricted social media use is actually doing to our brains, and the practical steps we can take to break the addiction cycle. Unpacking the latest scientific research on the brain, he explains knowledge to cure your smartphone addiction and foster deep, single-task focus. By taking control of your screen time, you'll feel happier, healthier and more productive.

This book describes the anguish of men battling with mental health issues and reflections from the people who treat them.

Marion Scher weaves together the stories of South African men who have confronted their mental health issues with the stories the doctors who treat them have to tell. It gives practical guidance on where men (and their friends and families) can turn for help in overcoming the ever-increasing scourge of mental illness in our society.

Marion Scher is a well-known SA mental health journalist and has done pro bono work for SADAG for over 30 years.

In 12 Rules for Life, acclaimed public thinker and clinical psychologist Jordan B. Peterson offered an antidote to the chaos in our lives: eternal truths applied to modern anxieties. His insights have helped millions of readers and resonated powerfully around the world.

Now in this long-awaited sequel, Peterson goes further, showing that part of life's meaning comes from reaching out into the domain beyond what we know, and adapting to an ever-transforming world. While an excess of chaos threatens us with uncertainty, an excess of order leads to a lack of curiosity and creative vitality. Beyond Order therefore calls on us to balance the two fundamental principles of reality - order and chaos ­- and reveals the profound meaning that can be found on the path that divides them.

In times of instability and suffering, Peterson reminds us that there are sources of strength on which we can all draw: insights borrowed from psychology, philosophy, and humanity's greatest myths and stories. Drawing on the hard-won truths of ancient wisdom, as well as deeply personal lessons from his own life and clinical practice, Peterson offers twelve new principles to guide readers towards a more courageous, truthful and meaningful life.

Gerard Egan and Robert Reese’s bestselling text has taught thousands of students using a proven counselling model which equips them to become confident and competent helpers.

Now in its fourth edition and containing all the recent research, the text uses a practical three stage step-by-step process to engage helpers and build their confidence. Users will learn how to tackle a wide variety of complex situations they’ll likely encounter throughout their work.

The Skilled Helper integrates the most relevant aspects of different theoretical orientations (humanistic, cognitive, behavioural and solution-focused) into a pragmatic approach to helping.

Developmental Psychology, second edition, provides a theory-driven approach to understanding development from two perspectives – psychoanalytic and cognitive. These two perspectives complement one another: a psychoanalytic focus is based on understandings of how the mind affects the development of personality, while a cognitive focus offers insight into the development of the mind. The third section of this book brings together thoughts on the South African context and how it impacts upon development.

Developmental Psychology is a broad and integrative introduction to developmental psychology for undergraduates, postgraduates and health professionals.

Toxic thoughts, depression, anxiety--our mental mess is frequently aggravated by a chaotic world and sustained by an inability to manage our runaway thoughts. But we shouldn't settle into this mental mess as if it's just our new normal. There's hope and help available to us--and the road to healthier thoughts and peak happiness may actually be shorter than you think.

Backed by clinical research and illustrated with compelling case studies, Dr. Caroline Leaf provides a scientifically proven five-step plan to find and eliminate the root of anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts in your life so you can experience dramatically improved mental and physical health.

In just 21 days, you can start to clean up your mental mess and be on the road to wholeness, peace, and happiness.

Barlow/Durand/Hofmann's Psychopathology: An Integrative Approach To Mental Disorders, 9th edition, is the perfect text to help you succeed in your psychopathology or abnormal psychology course!

The authors -- all internationally recognized experts in the field -- show you how psychological disorders are rooted in multiple factors: biological, psychological, cultural, social, familial and even political. Extremely student friendly, the text blends sophisticated research with an accessible, engaging writing style. Its groundbreaking integrative approach is the most modern, scientifically valid method for studying abnormal psychology.

Text language promotes inclusivity, normalizes diversity and avoids cultural, gender, economic and other biases. In addition, you can test your understanding of key topics with built-in concept checks and chapter quizzes.

Oprah Winfrey and renowned brain development and trauma expert, Dr. Bruce Perry, discuss the impact of trauma and adverse experiences and how healing must begin with a shift to asking, “what happened to you?” rather than “what’s wrong with you?”

Through wide-ranging, and often deeply personal conversation, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Perry explore how what happens to us in early childhood – both good and bad - influences the people we become. They challenge us to shift from focusing on, “What’s wrong with you?” or “Why are you behaving that way?,” to asking, “What happened to you?” This simple change in perspective can open up a new and hopeful understanding for millions about why we do the things we do, why we are the way we are, providing a road map for repairing relationships, overcoming what seems insurmountable, and ultimately living better and more fulfilling lives.

Many of us experience adversity and trauma during childhood that has lasting impact on our physical and emotional health. And as we’re beginning to understand, we are more sensitive to developmental trauma as children than we are as adults. ‘What happened to us’ in childhood is a powerful predictor of our risk for physical and mental health problems down the road, and offers scientific insights in to the patterns of behaviors so many struggle to understand.

A survivor of multiple childhood challenges herself, Oprah Winfrey shares portions of her own harrowing experiences because she understands the vulnerability that comes from facing trauma at a young age. Throughout her career, Oprah has teamed up with Dr. Bruce Perry, one of the world’s leading experts on childhood trauma. He has treated thousands of children, youth, and adults and has been called on for decades to support individuals and communities following high-profile traumatic events. Now, Oprah joins forces with Dr. Perry to marry the power of storytelling with the science and clinical experience to better understand and overcome the effects of trauma.

In conversation throughout the book, the two focus on understanding people, behavior, and ourselves in the context of personal experiences. They remove blame and self-shaming, and open up a space for healing and understanding. It’s a subtle but profound shift in our approach to trauma, and it’s one that allows us to understand our pasts in order to clear a path to our future - opening the door to resilience and healing in a proven, powerful way.

Grounded in the latest brain science and brought to life through compelling narratives, this book shines a light on a much-needed path to recovery – showing us our incredible capacity to transform after adversity.

Drawing on years of experience as a clinical psychologist, online sensation Dr Julie Smith shares all the skills you need to get through life's ups and downs.

Filled with secrets from a therapist's toolkit, this is a must-have handbook for optimising your mental health. Dr Julie's simple but expert advice and powerful coping techniques will help you stay resilient no matter what life throws your way.

Written in short, bite-sized entries, you can turn straight to the section you need depending on the challenge you're facing - and immediately find the appropriate tools to help with . . .

- Managing anxiety
- Dealing with criticism
- Battling low mood
- Building self-confidence
- Finding motivation
- Learning to forgive yourself

This book tackles the everyday issues that affect us all and offers easy, practical solutions that might just change your life.

A compassionate, shame-free guide for your darkest days

What happens when loving Jesus doesn’t cure you of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts? You might be crushed by shame over your mental illness, only to be told by well-meaning Christians to “choose joy” and “pray more.” So you beg God to take away the pain, but nothing eases the ache inside. As darkness lingers and color drains from your world, you’re left wondering if God has abandoned you.

You just want a way out.

But there’s hope.

In I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die, Sarah J. Robinson offers a healthy, practical, and shame-free guide for Christians struggling with mental illness. With unflinching honesty, Sarah shares her story of battling depression and fighting to stay alive despite toxic theology that made her afraid to seek help outside the church. Pairing her own story with scriptural insights, mental health research, and simple practices, Sarah helps you reconnect with the God who is present in our deepest anguish and discover that you are worth everything it takes to get better.

Beautifully written and full of hard-won wisdom, I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die offers a path toward a rich, hope-filled life in Christ, even when healing doesn’t look like what you expect.

Differences in personality and behaviour are part of the dynamic workplace. They can be understood better, and managed if necessary, if the HR practitioner or HR manager has some knowledge of psychology.

Basic Psychology for Human Resource Practitioners Fourth Edition discusses individual differences, abilities, attitudes, perceptions, personalities, and ways of learning, and covers the most important aspects of measuring personality traits. It also explains aspects of group behaviour, be they social, political, cultural, or recreational.

The Basic Psychology for Human Resource Practitioners deals with the historical development of human resource management, the functions of human resource departments, and current and future trends in human resource management in South Africa. An update of the 2019 edition, it references more recent sources, and uses practical examples that reflect new developments in the field.

Coping with your role as counsellor takes a heavy toll, whether you are a trauma counsellor, a nurse in an HIV/Aids clinic, a teacher, a policeman, or a human resources manager. This concise, and highly readable book, built on case studies and real-life experience, and drawing on the best theory and research, provides the guidance needed to stay reflective, healthy, and effective. It discusses issues of containment and expectation, effectve listening, HIV/Aids and trauma counselling, cultural difference, and balancing your counselling role with day-to-day responsibilities. This is essential reading for all students of psychology, counselling and social work.

ADULT DEVELOPMENT AND AGING makes it easier to study and learn. This best-selling development text helps you connect what you're learning with real life while providing you with the tools you need to be successful in your course. Learning objectives, concept checks, review questions (organized by topic heading for quick review), and key terms (with definitions) help you focus on what's important in each chapter.

This acclaimed book by Steven Pinker argues that, contrary to popular belief, humankind has become progressively less violent over millenia and decades. Can violence really have declined?

The images of conflict we see daily on our screens from around the world suggest this is an almost obscene claim to be making. Extraordinarily, however, Steven Pinker shows violence within and between societies - both murder and warfare - really has declined from prehistory to today. We are much less likely to die at someone else's hands than ever before. Even the horrific carnage of the last century, when compared to the dangers of pre-state societies, is part of this trend.

Debunking both the idea of the 'noble savage' and an over-simplistic Hobbesian notion of a 'nasty, brutish and short' life, Steven Pinker argues that modernity and its cultural institutions are actually making us better people.

A fusion of conversations, observations, and personal reflections on his own experiences, work with men, and scholarship, Why Men Hurt Women and Other Reflections on Love, Violence and Masculinity is Kopano Ratele’s meditation on love, violence and masculinity.

This book seeks to imagine the possibility of a more loving masculinity in a society where structural violence, failures of government and economic inequality underpin much of the violent behaviour that men display. Enriched with personal reflections on his own experiences as a partner, father, psychologist and researcher in the field of men and masculinities, Why Men Hurt Women and Other Reflections on Love, Violence and Masculinity is Kopano Ratele’s meditation on love and violence, and the way these forces shape the emotional lives of boys and men.

Blending academic substance and rigour in a readable narrative style, Ratele illuminates the complex nuances of gender, intimacy and power in the context of the human need for love and care. While unsparing in its analysis of men’s inner lives, Ratele lays out a path for addressing the hunger for love in boys and men. He argues that just as the beliefs and practices relating to gender, sexuality and the nature of love are constantly being challenged and revised, so our ideas about masculinity, and men’s and boys’ capacity to show genuine loving care for each other and for women, can evolve.

Surviving isn't enough: this is how you can thrive.

Over the past 15 years, anti-racist psychologist Guilaine Kinouani has contributed writing and run workshops on how racism affects both physical and mental health. Based on her findings, she has devised tried and tested psychological strategies. Her mission is to help thousands to find peace with this book.

Living While Black gives voice to the diverse experiences of Black people around the world and uses case studies and exclusive research to offer expert guidance on how to: set boundaries and process microaggressions; protect children from racism; navigate the dating world; identify and celebrate the wins.

Kinouani empowers Black readers to adopt self-care routines that improve day-to-day wellness to help them thrive not just survive and find hope - or even joy - in the face of adversity. This is also a vital resource for allies who wish to understand the impact of racism and how they can help.

Jordan Lee Dooley knows how devastating it can be to almost achieve a goal, almost reach a dream, or almost get to where you want to be, only to land just short of the finish line or watch it all fall apart at the last minute.

Disrupted, delayed, or even seemingly destroyed dreams have a way of making us rethink everything. But perhaps rethinking dreams is not always the worst thing. In those moments, you have a chance to pause and consider what matters most to you as well as redefine what success looks like for you in a world that’s constantly telling you what you should want or should do.

Believe it or not, it is possible to cultivate a life you really like—and one where you can succeed—in the tension of the middle, between where you started and where you hoped to be.

Discover:

• the single most important question to ask yourself as you set goals and make plans
• practical steps to move forward when your plans don’t go according to plan
• how to clarify which goals are right for you to pursue (and which are not)
• • what to do when dreams seem to come true for everyone but you
• the unexpected gains that can arise from unwanted pain
• how to know when it’s time to let go of a dream—and what to do with the space left behind

Life is filled with unexpected interruptions, almost-but-not-quite moments, uncertainty, and in-between seasons. As hard as those experiences may be, they also offer a unique invitation to align your dreams and goals with what matters most.