This appealing, accessible reference volume enables readers to easily understand what creates and constitutes stress-an unavoidable part of modern life-and learn about the psychology behind relaxation. What is "stress," from a psychological and physiological perspective? Why is it important to "unwind" and relax? Can some forms of stress actually be good? And how do people outside the United States relax? Part of Greenwood's The Psychology of Everyday Life series, this book defines in non-scientific language what stress and relaxation are, addresses factors related to our daily experiences with stress, identifies the negative effects of stress, and describes how to reduce stress and achieve relaxation. Readers will see how relaxation techniques are practiced around the world-and by people of all ages-and learn how "chilling out" can not only make you happier but may also help you live longer. The book also provides a critical-thinking section that challenges readers with questions such as "Are relaxation drinks effective?" The opposing viewpoints, written by scholars, encourage readers to consider the evidence on both sides of the debate and decide for themselves which answer makes the most sense. The scenarios presented in the book help readers to see the practical applications for relaxation techniques via an analysis of what is happening in the example and why particular recommendations may be made. Focuses on examples and applications from everyday life rather than abstract, academic theories to ensure that the information is highly accessible and relevant to readers seeking to understand how their stressful lives may be harming them and wanting specific strategies for improvement Includes real-world scenarios that demonstrate the positive and negative effects of different relaxation techniques in different circumstances Features a glossary of unfamiliar technical terms related to physiology, psychology, and psychological diagnosis Includes contributions from scholars debating major issues related to the psychology of relaxation

Has the connection between body size and overall health been overstated for decades? This book examines how our dogged efforts to eradicate obesity may be doing more harm than good and explores alternative ways to measure and encourage health. It's fair to say that Americans are obsessed with body size and weight—whether it's in the name of health and disease prevention or the idealization of unrealistically thin proportions. But trying to lose weight and drop clothing sizes is healthy, right? Or is it not healthy, in many cases? In this book, the latest in Greenwood's Health and Medical Issues Today series, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Certified Sport Psychology Consultant Christine L. B. Selby, PhD, examines the often confusing information—and misinformation—that exists on obesity and its connection to overall health. She provides a broad examination of this timely topic, addressing the rate of obesity in the United States, questioning the appropriateness of BMI to gauge overall health and well-being, discussing controversies related to weight and health including excessive dieting, and providing real-world scenarios that clearly illustrate major concepts related to weight and health. The book also summarizes a relatively new and still controversial approach to improving well-being that takes the focus off the number on the scale. But can individuals really be happy and healthy at any size

This book provides teens with an accessible introduction to counseling, psychotherapy, and other related services. The information, guidance, and resources it offers make it a valuable tool for young adult readers seeking professional assistance with their mental health concerns. Seeing a therapist or counselor can dramatically improve the lives of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and many other psychological disorders, yet many young people are too afraid or embarrassed to seek the help of a trained mental health professional. Are their troubles serious enough? What type of therapist should they see? How long will treatment take, and how much will it cost? Will friends and family members find out, and what will they think if they do? Therapy and Counseling: Your Questions Answered, a part of Greenwood's Q&A Health Guides series, answers these and many other questions, attempting to dispel the mystery and stigma that surrounds mental health treatment. Each book in this series follows a reader-friendly question-and-answer format that anticipates readers' needs and concerns. Prevalent myths and misconceptions are identified and dispelled, and a collection of case studies illustrates key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. The book also includes a section on health literacy, equipping teens and young adults with practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the internet—important skills that contribute to a lifetime of healthy decision-making.

This book explores what identity is, what factors contribute to it, how it develops, and the impacts that a strong or weak sense of self can have on a person's health, happiness, and future. Many teens grapple with the seemingly simple question, "Who am I?" and struggle to integrate their experiences at school, at home, and with friends into their burgeoning sense of identity. How teens see themselves can influence the friends they choose, the decisions they make, and their mental and physical well-being. Having a strong sense of self can help them resist peer pressure, avoid risky behaviors, and make choices and plans that align with their values and interests. Yet research shows that such factors as heavy social media use can have a strongly negative effect on healthy identity formation for today's teens. Who Am I? Understanding Identity and the Many Ways We Define Ourselves examines the subjects of identity and identity formation across the lifespan, with special emphasis on the teenage years. Beyond simply discussing relevant psychological theories, the book focuses on how identity formation happens in the real world and how it affects the daily lives of teens. It also includes a collection of fictional case studies that provide concrete, relatable illustrations of concepts discussed in the book. Focuses on a subject that is important to many teens, helping them better understand and contextualize their experiences Addresses many forms of identity, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, and hobbies Discusses identity formation from both theoretical and practical angles, providing value for both psychology students and general-interest readers Includes case studies that help to illustrate concepts discussed in the text Offers a Directory of Resources for readers seeking additional information

This book serves as an accessible resource for teens who want to learn more about obesity. The information and guidance it offers make it a valuable tool for young adult readers with questions or concerns about their weight. Obesity—represented by a BMI over 30—may be easy to define, but its causes and consequences and how individuals and agencies should address it are not as clear. Is obesity simply the result of eating more calories than one burns, or are other factors involved? Can an individual be obese and healthy? How does obesity affect psychological and social health? Are public health campaigns targeted at reducing obesity helping or hurting? Obesity: Your Questions Answered, a part of Greenwood's Q&A Health Guides series, answers these and other questions related to this high-interest topic. Each book in this series follows a reader-friendly question-and-answer format that anticipates readers' needs and concerns. Prevalent myths and misconceptions are identified and dispelled, and a collection of case studies illustrates key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. The book also includes a section on health literacy, equipping teens and young adults with practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the internet—important skills that contribute to a lifetime of healthy decision-making.

Offers a clear, concise, up-to-date introduction to eating disorders for students in the health professions This is a concise, accessible introduction to eating disorders for undergraduate and graduate students in psychology, as well as those specializing in health education and nutrition. Easy to read and grounded in DSM-5 definitions and the most up-to-date research, the text is designed for students in the health professions as well as health professionals seeking a basic understanding of the challenges associated with their diagnoses and treatment. Written by a licensed psychologist and certified eating disorders specialist, the book describes what eating disorders are and are not, who is likely to develop them, and signs and symptoms of specific disorders. It discusses biological, medical, psychological, interpersonal, and socio-cultural risk factors, and helps the reader to identify those who are at risk for experiencing an eating disorder and how to refer them for evaluation. Scenarios reflect the wide spectrum of people who suffer from eating disorders including young and old, male and female, and athlete and non-athlete. Uniquely, the book also covers the range of reactions someone-including treatment providers-can have to an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder. The text also delivers strategies for treatment and prevention, with overviews of their effectiveness. Print version of the book includes free, searchable, digital access to its entire contents. Key Features: Provides an easy-to-read introduction to the full range of eating disorders Discusses risk factors and warning signs of eating disorders Discusses evidence-based treatment approaches and prevention Considers long-term effects of eating disorders Includes illustrative narratives of diverse individuals with EDs Authored by a certified eating disorders specialist