In this book, you will learn basic psychological concepts and processes from the perspective of your role in everyday life. Teach Yourself Psychology explores why humans are the way they are, how they came to be that way, and what they might do to change seemingly fundamental traits. You will learn to observe human behavior on many levels while exploring the psychology of teaching and learning; the various research methods psychologists use; psychology in the workplace; biological rhythms and their influence on psychology; and much more.
A well written survey of the field of Psychology, focusing mostly on the practical questions which it attempts to answer. While unexpectedly limited in depth, the book does a good job of touching on important results on a broad range of areas.
Thank you Dr. Nicky Hayes for writing “Teach yourself Psychology.” For readers wanting to understand the history and importance of Psychology in the Sciences , this text will offer you an excellent point of engagement with respectful recognition of factors that impact an individual’s life: culture, social, emotional and neurobiological factors. Hayes weaves a recognition of the impact of Rosenthal and Jacobson (1968) and the construct of self-fulfilling prophesy contributing to self judgements. Adult beliefs about student learning capabilities “ can come true simply because they [the adults ] had said it” (Hayes, 2008, p. 18). To further support personal relationships Dr. Hayes wisely promotes the work of Carl Rogers father of counseling psychology who indicated people have two basic psychological needs that must be met in order to promote psychological safety and well-being: positive regard from other people - affection, love, and trust...and the need for self-actualizing...making real (‘actualizing’) the different parts of self-in other words, exploring and developing our ideas, abilities, interests, and talents” ( Hayes, 2008, p. 18). Unconditional positive regard provides a secure base for individuals no matter the varied contexts.
Hayes respectfully explores the self using a cultural lens and the self may be: embedded in community for example in African cultures and Indigenous Australian cultures, “ according to Hindu belief innermost self or atman is at one with God: it is a central, spiritual self which everyone possesses, but which can be reached only through meditation and other techniques“ (Hayes, 2008, p. 22), reflective of a private self where “people are expected to keep inner emotions private, and to act in a socially acceptable manner at all times (Hayes, 2008, p. 23) or represent our social identity and membership within groups replaces our individual self.
This well-written, easy to understand and systematically structured book serves as a great introduction to the subject of psychology. Though it seems slightly dated (psychological aspects of internet, websites, net surfing not being covered ) it is surely the first book anyone should read on this subject. Visit http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10... for the chapter wise summary of contents.
This book covers a multitude of aspects of psychology, but only in overview, lacking depth and detail. It's a good introduction, but far from a complete education in this subject.