Written by Dr Paul Seager, a social psychology specialist who teaches at
the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, 'Social Psychology: A
Complete Introduction' is designed to give you everything you need to
succeed, all in one place. It covers key areas that students are
expected to be confident in, outlining the basics in clear jargon-free
English, and then provides added-value features like summaries of key
studies, lists of questions to test your understanding of the concepts
covered, and a 'Food for thought' section at the end of each chapter
which challenges you to put the academic theories to practical use.
The book uses a structure that mirrors many university courses on social
psychology - starting off by explaining what social psychology is and
how it is researched, before exploring a wide variety of the fascinating
areas social psychologists have looked at in both classic and
lesser-known studies. Areas covered include: the self; attributions;
social cognition; interpersonal attraction; social influence; attitudes
and persuasion; prosocial behaviour; aggression; groups; leadership;
group decision making; intergroup behaviour; and prejudice. A final
chapter looks at how social psychology can, and has been, applied in the
real world to make a difference.
'Teach Yourself' titles employ the 'Breakthrough method', which is
designed specifically to overcome problems that students face.
- Problem: I find it difficult to remember what I've read.; Solution:
this book includes end-of-chapter summaries and questions to test your
understanding.
- Problem: Most books mention important other sources, but I can never
find them in time.; Solution: this book includes fully referenced quotes
ready to use in your essay or exam, and each chapter lists further
suggested readings for each topic.
- Problem: Lots of introductory books turn out to cover totally
different topics than my course.; Solution: this book is written by a
current university lecturer who understands what students are expected
to know.
