Essentials of Abnormal Psychology

Well known in their field, Durand, Barlow, and Hofmann revised every chapter to reflect the latest research studies on psychological disorders, with hundreds of new references appearing for the first time.

Case studies featuring real clients, mostly from the authors' own clinical experience, are incorporated throughout the book, providing a realistic context for the scientific research. These case studies ensure that students never lose sight of the fact that beyond the DSM-5 criteria, the theories, and the research, there are the people struggling with these disorders -- and that abnormal psychology is about "us" rather than "them."

The text's pioneering approach offers an integrative, multidimensional perspective, unlike texts that take a single-cause, single-treatment approach. Major psychological disorders are covered in 10 chapters, each discussing three broad categories: clinical descriptions, causal factors, and treatment and outcomes. Attention is also paid to case studies, DSM-5 criteria, and the general course or pattern for the disorder as a whole. Frequently, a single case is carried throughout the discussion of a disorder.

The authors thoroughly cover cultural and gender factors as they relate to abnormal behavior. For example, an updated discussion of services for individuals with gender dysphoria appears in Chapter 9, "Sexual Dysfunctions, Paraphilic Disorders, and Gender Dysphoria."

Discussing Diversity boxes augment coverage of cultural and gender factors and differences as they relate to the expression of disorders. Topics include cultural differences in menopause, suicide, and self-injury; and gender and cultural differences in alcohol and drug use.

DSM-5 Controversy boxes in each chapter discuss some of the most provocative aspects of the DSM-5 as they relate to the chapter topic.

Substantial, cutting-edge coverage of prevention includes topics that pique students' interest; for example, how to prevent eating disorders, sleep disorders, substance abuse and dependence, suicide, antisocial disorders in children, and more.

A Concept Check following every major section provides students with opportunities to assess their progress (answers are at the end of the chapter). In addition, a one-page Chapter Quiz provides a practice exam of key chapter content and serves as a mini-study guide.

Revised Student Learning Outcomes open each chapter, assisting instructors in accurately assessing and mapping questions throughout the chapter. The outcomes are mapped to the core APA goals (2012) and are integrated throughout the instructor resources and testing program.

A colorful two-page visual overview at the end of each disorder chapter summarizes the causes, development, symptoms, and treatment of the covered disorders. A helpful study tool, the overviews also show relevant interactions among various factors to reinforce the integrative approach.

The eighth edition continues to lead the market with groundbreaking updates to research findings, each tailored to reflect the cutting edge of science in abnormal psychology. For example, the authors cover updated views on the concept of "abnormality," new developments in dimensional classification of mental disorders, and cutting-edge research studies illustrating the difference between clinical and statistical significance.

Chapter 2 includes updates on the contribution of genetic factors and recent discoveries in neuroscience as they relate to psychopathology.

Chapter 4 includes new material on the principles of extinction learning in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders; Chapter 6 discusses the defining features of the newly created diagnosis of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.