Controversy and Psychology examines a range of areas studied in
psychology which have sparked controversy, encouraging readers to think
critically about the research they engage with in order to develop their
own opinions by recognising biases in this discipline.
Author Phil Banyard investigates the popular, mainstream subject of
psychology through a critical eye, presenting a researched account of
how the discipline, practice, research methods, and theories of
psychology have focused on a narrow group of people and in so doing
brought harm to others. The controversies addressed in the text include
methods in psychology, the history and ongoing acceptance of racism in
psychology, the categorisation and quantification of people, the
excessive and unhelpful use of diagnostic categories, the involvement of
psychologists in warfare, and finally the role of psychologists in
persuasive messaging. This illuminating text explores the history of
these controversies and highlights how they continue to affect the
profession and its interactions with people.
Controversy and Psychology is an essential read for undergraduate and
pre-undergraduate students studying psychology and for anyone in related
fields looking to gain a broader knowledge of the more contentious
aspects of the discipline and enhance their critical thinking skills.
Professionals and researchers looking to re-examine their working
methods can also benefit from the book.
