Clinical Psychology Evolving Theory, Practice, and Research

Bridging the gap between practicing clinicians and researchers, this comprehensive introduction is designed to provide a firm understanding of the basics of clinical psychology. It stresses the importance of theory, quality research, prevention, assessment skills and clinical abilities in interventions. The authors provide many examples and provocative presentations of issues that engages readers in lively and current clinical concerns.The book provides an introduction to basic concepts, and details assessment, evaluation and research within clinical psychology as well as clinical work in forensics, psychopharmacology and more.For individuals interested in broad-based introduction to clinical psychology.

PREFACE TO THE FOURTH EDITIONThis book is the culmination of many years of thought, research, and practice in clinical psychology by many people. The first edition published in 1962 was by Norm Sundberg and Leona Tyler; Julian Taplin joined us for the second and third editions in 1973 and 1983; and this fourth edition is the result of efforts by Sundberg, Allen Winebarger, Taplin, and invited authors for several special chapters. Sadly Leona Tyler passed away in 1993 after many years of contributing to psychology, especially by her research and writing on individual differences and counseling practice and by her service as the fourth woman president of the American Psychological Association. We are pleased that many of Leona's ideas live on in this book, and we have dedicated it to her with gratitude and affection. (For details of her life, see Sundberg & Littman, 1994.)In this book we have addressed such basic questions as these: What is clinical psychology? What are the fundamental ideas and tools for accomplishing effective and meaningful work with people and their problems? How can clinical work be related to both psychological research and the real world of daily living? In attempting to answer such questions, we have focused on advanced college undergraduates and beginning graduate students. We know that earlier editions have proven useful to a wider variety of readers, however--nurses, physicians, social workers, ministers, "intelligent laypersons," and even psychologists studying for state and national licensing examinations. The editions have also been used in other countries. Clinical, counseling, and other branches of applied psychology are becoming important players in understanding lives around the world.This edition represents both continuity and change. We have retained many of the emphases found in the earlier editions, as reflected by each edition's subtitle: "An Introduction to Research and Practice" (1962), "Expanding Horizons" (1973), and "Perspectives, Issues, and Contributions to Human Service" (1983). For this edition we have noted the changing nature of the field by using the word "Evolving" in the subtitle. As we updated this book, we continued to believe strongly in the necessity of seeking to integrate research, theory, and practice, even though such integration is difficult. We want readers to be aware of issues and conflicting perspectives, which call for creative efforts in practical application. Such efforts are essential as we seek to "help without harming" those who turn to clinicians for education, prevention, and therapeutic services. Over the years we have seen the expansion of clinical psychology into many areas of activity. We continue to see clinical work as involved with human development over the life span and with ecological settings that change over time. We recognize cultural, ethnic, and gender differences and commonalties in our country and others, and the dangers of failing to take those into account. We take a long-range view of the practice and art of living and the way that psychologists can be of help as they enter into personal lives. Building on earlier editions, this introduction to clinical psychology integrates a focus on the importance of the prevention of psychological disorder and the promotion of mental health throughout the text. We truly hope to engage the reader and to inspire the next generation of clinicians in this wondrous and significant search.The 15 chapters of the book are divided into 4 sections. The first section explores introductory concepts and conceptions about the field and covers decision making and ethical considerations about clinical work with people. The second section introduces readers to a more detailed look at assessment, evaluation, and research. The third looks at applications of clinical work and interventions across the life span and at physical and neurological aspects of clinical psych