Understanding Psychopathology: South African Perspectives 3e provides a solid introduction to the study of mental disorders that incorporates socio-cultural, psychological and biomedical dimensions. It refers to criteria from both the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) and the International Classifications of Diseases (ICD–10) to describe and define mental disorders. It also looks at the ICD–11, and how this new version has been harmonised with the DSM–5.

The third edition of this book, previously published as Abnormal Psychology revised second edition, presents South African debates and data to ensure that it is relevant to the local context. In addition, research from the rest of Africa has been integrated into the book to show how other countries in our region are grappling with topical issues.

This book is aimed at second- and third-year students following courses in Psychopathology or Abnormal Psychology as part of a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Social Sciences degree at Universities. It has been written by academics and practitioners from across South Africa.

Abnormal psychology: A South African perspective highlights cultural variances pertinent to the understanding of abnormal psychology ensuring relevance to the South African context. It includes a chapter on South African legislation on the management of people with disorders, which includes applicable excerpts from the South African ethical code for psychologists. The book maps the spectrum of psychological disorders covered in undergraduate curricula, and refers to both International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) criteria to classify and define mental disorders.