A FIRST LOOK AT PSYCHOLOGY

by Bernice Kohn ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 1, 1969

Dating the science of psychology from 1879 (Wundt's laboratory), a dubious beginning, this covers several aspects of psychology but not all of them, and not even the basic concepts, and the omissions (notably the centrality of the senses)-are serious. The conscious and unconscious (not subconscious) are explained through latent wishes, slips, and dream interpretation, and some motivations and needs of individual behavior are isolated. But the text virtually neglects basic ideas about illusions or hallucinations, and suggests too few tests for the reader. Some of the early Pavlov and Skinner experiments are presented and behavior is attributed to learning, maturation and heredity but important distinctions are not made: e.g. a psychiatrist seems to be merely a psychologist who has studied medicine. Alexander's The Hidden You is a more complete (but no more demanding) source for this age level while the others available (McBain & Johnson, White & Lietz, Goldenson) are more complex and aimed at older readers.

Pub Date: April 1, 1969

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Hawthorn

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1969

Categories: NONFICTION