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Simply Psychology
by Michael W. EysenckSimply Psychology, fifth edition, is an engaging and reader-friendly introduction to the key principles of psychology. Organised around the major approaches to the subject, it covers biological, developmental, social, and cognitive psychology, as well as individual differences. Supported by a wealth of colour illustrations, this textbook provides students new to the subject with straightforward and clear explanations of all the key topics within contemporary psychology. The features spread throughout the book are designed to help readers to engage with the material and include: highlighted key terms and comprehensive glossary chapter introductions and summaries further reading and evaluation boxes structured essay and self-assessment questions case studies and examples illustrating the application of key theories a practical chapter that offers students tips and advice to help them improve their study skills and get the most out of the book and their studies. Additional features new to the fifth edition include: new quizzes updated further reading advice an extra chapter on clinical psychology an expanded section on quantitative research methods additional coverage of popular topics, like sleep. This is an ideal text for students new to psychology and those in related fields such as nursing, social work, and the social sciences.
Simply Psychology (DK Simply)
by DKGrasping complex psychological ideas has never been easier.Transforming complicated ideas into easy-to-understand graphics supported by accessible text, Simply Psychology is the perfect introduction to the subject for those who are short on time but hungry for knowledge. Covering the key psychological theories from moral development to cognitive behavioral therapy, each easy-to-read, single-page entry explains the concept more clearly than ever before. Organized into chapters covering each branch of psychology, the book maps the development of psychological study, unpacking the complex ideas from the philosophers, psychologists, and scientists who have shaped our understanding of the human brain. Whether you are studying psychology in high school or college, or simply want a nonspecialized insight into the subject, this essential guide is packed with everything you need to understand the foundation of the subject quickly and easily.
Simply Psychology, Second Edition
by Michael W. EysenckThis textbook provides a comprehensive account of psychology for all those with little or no previous knowledge of the subject. It covers the main areas of psychology, including social psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, personality, intelligence, and biological psychology.; Each chapter contains definitions of key terms, together with several multiple-choice questions and answers, and semi- structured essay questions. In addition, every chapter contains a "Personal Viewpoint" section, which encourages the reader to compare his or her views on psychology with the relevant findings of psychologists. The last chapter is devoted to study skills, and provides numerous practical hints for readers who want to study more effectively.
Simulating Social Complexity: A Handbook (Understanding Complex Systems)
by Bruce Edmonds Ruth MeyerSocial systems are among the most complex known. This poses particular problems for those who wish to understand them. The complexity often makes analytic approaches infeasible and natural language approaches inadequate for relating intricate cause and effect. However, individual- and agent-based computational approaches hold out the possibility of new and deeper understanding of such systems. Simulating Social Complexity examines all aspects of using agent- or individual-based simulation. This approach represents systems as individual elements having each their own set of differing states and internal processes. The interactions between elements in the simulation represent interactions in the target systems. What makes these elements "social" is that they are usefully interpretable as interacting elements of an observed society. In this, the focus is on human society, but can be extended to include social animals or artificial agents where such work enhances our understanding of human society. The phenomena of interest then result (emerge) from the dynamics of the interaction of social actors in an essential way and are usually not easily simplifiable by, for example, considering only representative actors. The introduction of accessible agent-based modelling allows the representation of social complexity in a more natural and direct manner than previous techniques. In particular, it is no longer necessary to distort a model with the introduction of overly strong assumptions simply in order to obtain analytic tractability. This makes agent-based modelling relatively accessible to a range of scientists. The outcomes of such models can be displayed and animated in ways that also make them more interpretable by experts and stakeholders. This handbook is intended to help in the process of maturation of this new field. It brings together, through the collaborative effort of many leading researchers, summaries of the best thinking and practice in this area and constitutes a reference point for standards against which future methodological advances are judged. This book will help those entering into the field to avoid "reinventing the wheel" each time, but it will also help those already in the field by providing accessible overviews of current thought. The material is divided into four sections: Introductory, Methodology, Mechanisms, and Applications. Each chapter starts with a very brief section called 'Why read this chapter?' followed by an abstract, which summarizes the content of the chapter. Each chapter also ends with a section of 'Further Reading' briefly describing three to eight items that a newcomer might read next.
Simulating the Mind II: From Artificial Intelligence to Neurology and Psychoanalysis
by Dietmar Dietrich Volker Hartmann CardelleThe declared goal of this book, an extended and revised translation of the German edition (2021), is to show how a unified model of the psyche and body can be developed via insights from psychoanalysis, neurology and computer technology. On the one hand, such a model allows for the testing of psychological and social theories on a scientific basis with the help of simulation experiments. On the other hand, the model developed according to the functional structures of the human brain and psyche provides the basis for artificial intelligence systems. These are systems with cognitive capabilities that can save human lives, save energy, ensure safety at airports, provide support in old-age care and in the medical field; in other words and generally speaking, systems that can simplify our lives in a relevant way and on a broad basis. A great deal of time and money is invested in genetic engineering and neurology, but research into the mental apparatus in the context of the neurological part, i.e., modeling the brain in a holistic way, is sparse in every respect. However, the results of the scientific project SiMA, of which the first author has been a driving force, show that the research of this organ, which in the authors’ understanding includes the mental apparatus, as a whole, is quite feasible today. This is also the main message of the book, which addresses topics such as artificial intelligence, the brain, psychoanalysis, behavioral models, complexity, bionics of the mental, emotions and feelings, consciousness and awareness, preconscious and unconscious, the functional (and not only behavioral) description and modeling of the brain and especially of the mental apparatus, and some more. In the world of technology, there is generally little interest in psychoanalysis, whereas in the world of psychoanalysis, people usually refuse to deal with mathematics and technology, especially computer technology. Is there an information theory of the brain on the one hand, and of computer technology on the other hand? The authors attempt to answer this question from both sides. With the goal to reach as many readers as possible and to provoke, the authors break with traditions and give space to new forms of thinking and argue that it is crucial to take a new path in automation, in artificial intelligence and in (technical) cognitive science, but also in psychoanalysis and neurology, in order to create a common basis for scientific and technical possibilities that have been previously inaccessible.
Simulation Theory: A psychological and philosophical consideration (Explorations in Cognitive Psychology)
by Tim ShortTheory of Mind (ToM) is the term used for our ability to predict and explain the behaviour of ourselves and others. Accounts of this theory have so far fallen into two competing types: Simulation Theory and ‘Theory Theory’. In contrast with Theory Theory, Simulation Theory argues that we predict behaviour not by employing a model of people, but by replicating others’ thoughts and feelings. This book presents a novel defence of Simulation Theory, reviewing the major challenges against it and positing the theory as the most effective method for exploring how we know each other and ourselves. Drawing on key research in the field, chapters reopen the debates surrounding Theory of Mind and cover a variety of topics including schizophrenia with implications for experimental social psychology. In the past, one of the greatest criticisms against Simulation Theory is that it cannot explain systematic error in Theory of Mind. This book explores the rapidly developing heuristics and biases programme, pioneered by Kahneman and Tversky, to suggest that a novel bias mismatch defence available to Simulation Theory explains these systematic errors. Simulation Theory: A psychological and philosophical consideration will appeal to a range of researchers and academics, including psychologists from the fields of cognitive, social and developmental psychology, as well as philosophers, psychotherapists and practitioners looking for further research on Theory of Mind. The book will also be of relevance to those interested in autism, since it offers a new approach to Theory of Mind which explains central symptoms in autistic subjects.
Simulation and Its Discontents
by Sherry TurkleOver the past twenty years, the technologies of simulation and visualization have changed our ways of looking at the world. In Simulation and Its Discontents,Sherry Turkle examines the now dominant medium of our working lives and finds that simulation has become its own sensibility. We hear it in Turkle's description of architecture students who no longer design with a pencil, of science and engineering students who admit that computer models seem more "real" than experiments in physical laboratories. Echoing architect Louis Kahn's famous question, "What does a brick want?", Turkle asks, "What does simulation want?" Simulations want, even demand, immersion, and the benefits are clear. Architects create buildings unimaginable before virtual design; scientists determine the structure of molecules by manipulating them in virtual space; physicians practice anatomy on digitized humans. But immersed in simulation, we are vulnerable. There are losses as well as gains. Older scientists describe a younger generation as "drunk with code." Young scientists, engineers, and designers, full citizens of the virtual, scramble to capture their mentors' tacit knowledge of buildings and bodies. From both sides of a generational divide, there is anxiety that in simulation, something important is slipping away. Turkle's examination of simulation over the past twenty years is followed by four in-depth investigations of contemporary simulation culture: space exploration, oceanography, architecture, and biology. Simplicity: Design, Technology, Business, Life, edited by John Maeda
Simulation and Learning
by Franco LandriscinaThe main idea of this book is that to comprehend the instructional potential of simulation and to design effective simulation-based learning environments, one has to consider both what happens inside the computer and inside the students' minds. The framework adopted to do this is model-centered learning, in which simulation is seen as particularly effective when learning requires a restructuring of the individual mental models of the students, as in conceptual change. Mental models are by themeselves simulations, and thus simulation models can extend our biological capacity to carry out simulative reasoning. For this reason, recent approaches in cognitive science like embodied cognition and the extended mind hypothesis are also considered in the book.. A conceptual model called the "epistemic simulation cycle" is proposed as a blueprint for the comprehension of the cognitive activies involved in simulation-based learning and for instructional design.
Simulation and Learning: A Model-Centered Approach
by Franco LandriscinaThe main idea of this book is that to comprehend the instructional potential of simulation and to design effective simulation-based learning environments, one has to consider both what happens inside the computer and inside the students' minds. The framework adopted to do this is model-centered learning, in which simulation is seen as particularly effective when learning requires a restructuring of the individual mental models of the students, as in conceptual change. Mental models are by themeselves simulations, and thus simulation models can extend our biological capacity to carry out simulative reasoning. For this reason, recent approaches in cognitive science like embodied cognition and the extended mind hypothesis are also considered in the book.. A conceptual model called the "epistemic simulation cycle" is proposed as a blueprint for the comprehension of the cognitive activies involved in simulation-based learning and for instructional design.
Simulations for Personnel Selection
by Kathy Tuzinski Michael FetzerThis book provides a comprehensive and state-of-the-art overview of simulation development, technologies, and implementation, including real-world examples and results followed by a preview of what's on the horizon that will further revolutionize the industry. More than a handful of books have been written on the use of simulations for training purposes, but this book focuses solely on simulations in employee selection contexts (e.g., hiring, promotion), making it a truly unique and valuable resource for both practitioners and academics. The science and practice of employee selection has advanced at a steady pace over the past two or three decades. However, recent advancements in both technology and assessment methods have been the catalyst for an evolutionary leap in the use of simulations in this area.
Sin Sick: Moral Injury in War and Literature
by Joshua PedersonIn Sin Sick, Joshua Pederson draws on the latest research about identifying and treating the pain of perpetration to advance and deploy a literary theory of moral injury that addresses fictional representations of the mental anguish of those who have injured or killed others. Pederson's work foregrounds moral injury, a recent psychological concept distinct from trauma that is used to describe the psychic wounds suffered by those who breach their own deeply held ethical principles.Complementing writings on trauma theory that posit the textual manifestation of trauma as absence, Sin Sick draws argues that moral injury appears in literature in a variety of forms of excess. Pederson closely reads works by Dostoevsky (Crime and Punishment), Camus (The Fall), and veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan (Brian Turner's Here, Bullet; Kevin Powers' The Yellow Birds; Phil Klay's Redeployment; and Roy Scranton's War Porn), contending that recognizing and understanding the suffering of perpetrators, without condoning their crimes, enriches the experience of reading—and of being human.
Sin and Sex (Routledge Revivals Ser.)
by Robert BriffaultDelve into the complex interplay of morality, culture, and human sexuality with Robert Briffault's provocative work, "Sin and Sex." This thought-provoking book offers a comprehensive exploration of the ways in which societal norms and religious beliefs shape our understanding and attitudes toward sex and sin.Robert Briffault, a distinguished anthropologist and sociologist, brings his extensive knowledge and analytical skills to bear on this intricate subject. In "Sin and Sex," he examines the historical evolution of sexual mores, the impact of religious doctrines on sexual behavior, and the psychological underpinnings of guilt and desire.The book traces the origins and transformations of sexual morality across different cultures and epochs, revealing how notions of sin and virtue are deeply rooted in social and religious contexts. Briffault explores how ancient civilizations, from the Greeks and Romans to early Christians, viewed sexuality, and how these perspectives have influenced modern Western attitudes.Briffault's analysis is not limited to historical and cultural dimensions; he also delves into the biological and psychological aspects of human sexuality. He discusses the inherent drives and instincts that govern sexual behavior, the development of sexual identity, and the ways in which societal pressures can lead to internal conflicts and neuroses."Sin and Sex" challenges readers to reconsider their preconceptions about morality and sexuality, encouraging a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of human behavior. Briffault's writing is both scholarly and accessible, making complex ideas comprehensible and engaging for a wide audience.This book is essential reading for students of anthropology, sociology, psychology, and anyone interested in the intersections of culture, religion, and sexuality. "Sin and Sex" provides valuable insights into the forces that shape our sexual norms and the ways in which these norms influence our lives.Join Robert Briffault on a journey through the multifaceted world of sin and sex, and discover the profound connections between our deepest desires and the moral codes that seek to regulate them. This seminal work remains a significant contribution to the study of human sexuality and its moral implications.
Sin esfuerzo: Facilita lo que me importa
by Greg MckeownUna poderosa guía para alcanzar tus objetivos que inicia con un simple principio: NO TODO TIENE QUE SER TAN DIFÍCIL. Estamos condicionados a creer que el camino del éxito está lleno de trabajo; que si queremos superarnos tenemos que sobrepensar , hacer de más y sobresforzarnos; que si no estamos exhaustos todo el tiempo no estamos haciendo lo suficiente. Sin embargo, últimamente trabajar duro es mucho más cansado que antes y entre más agotados estamos menos progresamos. Pero avanzar no tiene que ser tan difícil como pensamos. No importa qué obstáculos nos encontremos, siempre hay una mejor manera: en lugar de presionarnos para dar más, podemos encontrar un camino más fácil. Sin Esfuerzo te enseña a: •Convertir tareas tediosas en rituales disfrutables. •Prevenir la frustración al solucionar problemas antes de que aparezcan. •Lograr un ritmo sostenible en lugar de acelerar todo el tiempo. •Decidir una vez y eliminar futuras decisiones. •Simplificar tu proceso al suprimir pasos innecesarios. •Facilitar el mantenimiento y gestión de relaciones. Y mucho más.
Sin fin
by Ángel GabilondoÁngel Gabilondo nos revela que hablar y escribir puede ser la creación constante de otras posibilidades, de otra realidad sin fin. «Los afectos son siempre una búsqueda»Ángel Gabilondo Este libro es una declaración, no una confesión. Aquí se expone una forma de vida que bien pudiera ser de cada uno de nosotros. No son fragmentos ni apuntes, son reflexiones completas de lo que podría decirse, que muestran una posición de afectos y de sentimientos, que a su vez son pensamiento, en una carta que no tiene final porque necesita de otro para ser escrita. Los afectos son siempre una búsqueda. Sin fin es la evidencia de que nos ocurre algo que a menudo nos desborda y que tiene que ver con lo que callamos -por pudor, por prudencia, por mantener nuestra intimidad-, con la pulsión que nos obliga a decir, a crear, a conocernos y a darnos cuenta de que hay ciertos asuntos que sOlo se conocen cuando se hablan. Avalado por la respuesta a sus anteriores obras, Alguien con quien hablar y Contigo, Ángel Gabilondo vuelve a promover en Sin fin la palabra honesta y certera, no solo para transmitirnos lo ya pensado, sino para sugerirnos lo que podemos llegar a pensar. Una obra que nos revela que hablar y escribir pueden ser además de una mera proyección de hechos, deseos o sentimientos la creación constante de otras posibilidades y, por encima de todo, de nosotros mismos.
Sin, Pride and Self-Acceptance: The Problem of Identity in Theology and Psychology
by Terry D. CooperWhat is at the root of the problem of humanity? Is it pride or lack of self-esteem?Do we love ourselves too much or too little?The debate about the human condition has often been framed this way in both theological and psychological circles. Convictions about preaching, teaching, marriage and child rearing, as well as politics, social welfare, business management and the helping professions, more often than not, fall on one side or the other of this divide. With theological and psychological insight Terry D. Cooper provides trenchant analysis of this centuries-long debate and leads us beyond the usual impasse. Humanistic psychology has often regarded traditional Christianity as its archrival in assessing the human condition. Cooper demonstrates how the Christian doctrine of a sinful and fallen humanity sheds light on the human condition which exhibits both pride and self-denigration. Bringing theological insights ranging from Augustine and John Calvin to Reinhold Niebuhr together with the psychological theories of Freud, Jung, Carl Rogers, Gerald May and Karen Horney, Cooper guides readers through the maze of competing claims to a resolution which affirms Christian conviction while critically engaging modern psychological theory. A model of the proper integration of Christian theology and the discipline of psychology,Sin, Pride & Self-Acceptance will be of special help to students and practitioners of psychology, pastoral counseling and clinical psychology.
Since Lacan: Papers of the Freudian School of Melbourne: Volume 25 (Papers of the Freudian School of Melbourne)
by Linda CliftonSince Lacan is the latest volume of the Papers of the Freudian School of Melbourne, School of Lacanian Psychoanalysis, founded in 1977. As such it is comprised of original papers by analysts and members of the School and other invited international contributors. Three and a half decades after the death of Lacan the papers in Since Lacan can be read as a response to the question as to what difference Lacan's teaching has made in the field of psychoanalysis. A critique is provided of the 'mis'-directions taken in the past thirty years. It takes further Lacan's own recognition of being 'traumatised by misunderstanding' which he tired of 'dissolving'. These papers, while marked by their origin in Lacanian discourse, take up the opening offered by the fact that Lacanian discourse is neither closed nor complete. They demonstrate the possibility of moving from the origin to originality in an antipodean place and a time far removed from any imaginary Lacanian centre.
Since Strangling Isn't an Option: Common Problems and Uncommon Solutions
by Sandra A. CroweDo certain people have you gritting your teeth, biting your tongue, and (metaphorically, at least) banging your head against the wall? Do you feel like you're expending too much energy either engaging in conflict or desperately trying to avoid it? There really are better, easier ways to deal with difficult people. This refreshing, realistic guide, with revealing selfquizzes and engaging exercises included, will provide you with real solutions to the oftentimes "unreal" problems. YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT ... · why dealing with a difficult person doesn't have to ruin your day · the habits that cause continued conflict-and the techniques that can turn things around · how developing an "attitude of gratitude" helps smooth the way · your own power in shaping relationships (it can make a bigger difference than you think!) · snakes and lizards, donkeys and hyenas: specific advice for specific personality types With mindfulness, compassion, and common sense, it is possible to deal successfully with difficult people. And with enough practice of the principles in this book-and a healthy dose of patience-you might even get to like them. "Dealing with difficult people is an unavoidable fact of life in our fast-moving, competitive society. This book shows you how to defuse the negative aspects of another's behavior and be more effective in every situation." -Brian Tracy, author of Maximum Achievement
Since Strangling Isn't an Option: Dealing with Difficult People--Common Problems and Uncommon Solutions
by Sandra A. CroweFor those who feel like they are expending too much energy either engaging in conflict or desperately trying to avoid it, this refreshing, realistic guide provides accessible solutions. Readers will learn why dealing with a difficult person doesn't have to ruin their day, the habits that cause conflict, and the techniques that can turn things around. It also gives readers insight into their own power in shaping relationships, and specific advice for handling different personality types. There really is a better way!
Sincerely, Your Autistic Child: What People on the Autism Spectrum Wish Their Parents Knew About Growing Up, Acceptance, and Identity
by Autistic Women and Nonbinary NetworkA rare and diverse collection of autistic voices that highlights to parents the unique needs of girls and nonbinary people who are growing up with autism.Most resources available for parents come out of the medical model of disability--from psychologists, educators, parents, and doctors--offering parents a narrow and technical approach to autism. Furthermore, it is widely believed that many autistic girls and women are underdiagnosed, which has further limited the information available regarding the unique needs of girls and nonbinary people with autism. <p><p>Sincerely, Your Autistic Child represents an authentic resource for parents written by people who understand this experience most, autistic people themselves. From childhood and education to gender identity and sexuality, this anthology of autistic contributors tackles the everyday challenges of growing up while honestly addressing the emotional needs, sensitivity, and vibrancy of autistic girls and nonbinary people. Written like letters to parents, the contributors reflect on what they have learned while growing up with autism and how parents can avoid common mistakes and overcome challenges while raising their child. <p><p>Sincerely, Your Autistic Child calls parents to action by raising awareness and redefining "normal" in order to help parents make their child feel truly accepted, valued, and celebrated for who they are.
Sincerity and Other Works: Collected Papers of Donald Meltzer
by Donald MeltzerThe author formulates here the existence of an anxiety apparatus whose functioning is a part of the ego and the personality structure and illustrates how in attacking this apparatus the ego is attacking itself. An example is given of the workings of the death instinct, and a differentiation is made between the ego's defence mechanisms and other pathological character devices.
Singing Out Loud: A Memoir of an Ex-Mardi Gras Queen
by Marilee EavesBorn during World War II, Marilee Eaves has long struggled to fit into the New Orleans elite—secret Mardi Gras societies that ruled the city—into which she was born. Then, as a student at Wellesley, she’s hospitalized at McLean psychiatric hospital, where she begins to realize how much of herself she’s sacrificed to blend into and be fully accepted by the exclusive and exclusionary white Uptown New Orleans culture to which she supposedly belongs. In Singing Out Loud, Eaves tells of her journey to stand on her own two feet—to find a way to be grounded and evolved in the midst of that culture. Along the way, she wrestles with bipolar disorder, alcoholism, and the effects of her bad (heartbreaking, and sometimes hilarious) choices. Raw and funny, this book offers hope and encouragement to those willing to be vulnerable, address their issues, and laugh at themself in order to embrace who they truly are.
Single Case Methods in Clinical Psychology: A Practical Guide
by Stephen MorleySingle-Case Methods in Clinical Psychology: A Practical Guide provides a concise and easily-accessible introduction to single-case research. This is a timely response to the increasing awareness of the need to look beyond randomised controlled trials for evidence to support best practice in applied psychology. The book covers the issues of design, the reliability and validity of measurement, and provides guidance on how to analyse single-case data using both visual and statistical methods. Single-case designs can be used to investigate an individual’s response to psychological intervention, as well as to contribute to larger scale research projects. This book illuminates the common principles behind these uses. It describes how standardised measures can be used to evaluate change in an individual and how to develop idiographic measures that are tailored to the needs of an individual. The issue of replication and generalising beyond an individual are examined, and the book also includes a section on the meta-analysis of single-case data. The critical evaluation of single-case research is examined, from both the perspective of developing quality standards to evaluate research and maintaining a critical distance in reviewing one’s own work. Single Case Methods in Clinical Psychology will provide invaluable guidance to postgraduate psychologists training to enter the professions of clinical, health and counselling psychology and is likely to become a core text on many courses. It will also appeal to clinicians seeking to answer questions about the effectiveness of therapy in individual cases and who wish to use the method to further the evidence-base for specific psychological interventions.
Single Case Research Methodology
by Jennifer R. Ledford David L. GastIn this anticipated new edition of Single Case Research Methodology, David L. Gast and Jennifer R. Ledford detail why and how to apply standard principles of single case research methodology to one's own research or professional project. Using numerous and varied examples, they demonstrate how single case research can be used for research in behavioral and school psychology, special education, speech and communication sciences, language and literacy, occupational therapy, and social work. This thoroughly updated new edition features two entirely new chapters on measurement systems and controversial issues in single subject research, in addition to sample data sheets, graphic displays, and detailed guidelines for conducting visual analysis of graphic data. This book will be an important resource to student researchers, practitioners, and university faculty who are interested in answering applied research questions and objectively evaluating educational and clinical practices.
Single Case Research in Schools: Practical Guidelines for School-Based Professionals (School-Based Practice in Action)
by Kimberly J. Vannest John L. Davis Richard I. ParkerSingle Case Research in Schools addresses and examines the variety of cutting-edge issues in single case research (SCR) in educational settings. Featuring simple and practical techniques for aggregating data for evidence-based practices, the book delves into methods of selecting behaviors of interest and measuring them reliably. The latter part of Single Case Research in Schools is devoted to a step-by-step model of using SCR to evaluate practices in schools. This includes considerations such as measurement, date collection, length of phases, design consideratoins, calculating effect size and reliability of measures.
Single Parent Families: Diversity, Myths and Realities
by Marvin B Sussman Shirley HansonHere is a comprehensive source of vital information on single parent families in contemporary society. This book analyzes literature and empirical research concerning single parent families and explores issues and challenges they face. Contributing authors from many fields and perspectives examine a broad range of subjects relating to families in which one person is primarily responsible for parenting. The only state-of-the-art compendium on the topic of single parent families available today, the book synthesizes empirical, theoretical, and contemporary literature about the diversity, myths, and realities of single parent families in western countries.Each chapter contains a demographic overview, definitions, a literature review, and implications for practice, research, education, and social policy. Theoretical and conceptual perspectives related to parenting and wider families are included. An analysis, synthesis, and commentary on single parent families concludes the volume. Themes highlighted throughout the book include socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of single parent families, cultural and ethnic features, and legal and ethical components. Some chapter topics include: single parenthood following divorce single parenthood following death of a spouse never married teen mothers and fathers female-headed homeless families adoptions by single parents noncustodial mothers and fathers grandparents as primary parents single parents of children with disabilitiesSingle Parent Families contains additional resources useful for family professionals: an annotated bibliography, a video/filmography, and a national community resource list. The book is intended for a multidisciplinary audience, including sociologists, psychologists, health care professionals, social workers, therapists, and other researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and educators. An ideal primary or reference text for undergraduate and graduate level programs, the book can also serve as a tool for staff development and continuing education in service agencies.