Abnormal Psychology - 2nd Edition

Reviewed by Erin Palmwood, Assistant Professor, University of Mary Washington on 6/25/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

This text covers all key groups of psychological disorders that one might want to discuss in an Abnormal Psychology course. It provides an appropriate overview of key components within each subject area and does not "cast too wide a net" - it focuses appropriately on the most up-to-date, empirically-supported information about the etiology, symptoms, and treatment of each disorder. Additionally, the text is appropriately concise, providing key information in a way that is both comprehensive and accessible. Regarding content areas, I would have liked to see a Research Methods chapter and perhaps a designated chapter on Ethical Issues (which is currently a small section of the Contemporary Issues chapter).

Content Accuracy rating: 4

The text provides accurate, up-to-date, scientifically sound information regarding the etiology, symptoms, and treatment of each psychological disorder. However, it is missing a significant number of citations for the information provided - which is a problem in terms of (1) assessing the credibility of the claims made in the text and (2) teaching students the importance of citing their work.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The text is up-to-date with current research, and it is also organized in such a way that future updates to our understanding of the etiology and treatment of different psychological disorders should be relatively easy to add to the book.

Clarity rating: 5

The clarity of the text is one of its major strengths. It is written in a way that is accessible and concise, and key concepts are presented in a very digestible manner. While many textbooks might take two paragraphs to explain a concept, this textbook achieves an appropriate level of detail in a few sentences - which will likely enhance student engagement with the text.

Consistency rating: 5

The book achieves appropriate consistently in style and approach to content.

Modularity rating: 5

The text has several headers and sub-headers that are logical and consistent across chapters, as well as "key takeaways" at the end of each section. An instructor could easily break down a chapter into smaller assignments for students without causing high levels of confusion.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

The chapters within this textbook are exceedingly well-organized. Across chapters, content is presented in a predictable way that is outlined at the start of the chapter, and key takeaways are presented between each section to facilitate learning consolidation. However, some of the "blocks" which organize the chapters within the textbook are structured in an unclear manner, which makes it difficult to anticipate where certain chapters might be located.

Interface rating: 5

No interface concerns noted.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical concerns noted.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

I did not observe any culturally insensitive language in my review of the text. However, the text's coverage of cultural factors in the etiology, presentation, and treatment of psychological disorders is exceedingly limited, and I would have liked to see increased attention to the role of culture and identity throughout the book.

Comments

The information provided in the PTSD section would benefit from increased focus on current empirically-supported treatments. Of the four psychotherapeutic treatments discussed, one is critical incident stress debriefing (CISD), which has been shown to have iatrogenic effects, and one is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), which is controversial at best. While the text does discuss exposure therapy and CBT, it is missing explicit discussions of empirically-supported treatments like CPT and PE.

Reviewed by Janessa Carvalho, Associate Professor, Bridgewater State University on 6/23/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

Bridley's text covers most of the traditional components covered in Abnormal Psychology textbooks, though I was disappointed to see the absence of neurodevelopmental disorders and sexual/gender disorders covered. Historically, students really enjoy learning about neurodevelopmental disorders and sexual/gender disorders chapter offers a nice opportunity to teach sociocultural factors in clinical psychology.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

I thought the book overall made very accurate statements, with the exception that some information in the Current Trends section (Module 1) could stand to be updated.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The authors for the most part cover all relevant content in the field.

Clarity rating: 5

The book was written in a clear format with good readability for undergraduate level.

Consistency rating: 4

I found overall consistency among presentation of disorders and content within each learning module. Though there was some redundancy (classification covered in module 1 and 3).

Modularity rating: 5

I found the various sections and content to be relatively will encapsulated and students would be able to review content in small chunks, if thats of their choosing, without disrupting flow of learning. However, I prefer a bit more scaffolding where the content builds up to other information.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Organization and structure were quite aligned with other Abnormal Psychology textbooks I've reviewed and used.

Interface rating: 5

The web format used for this textbook worked just fine for me and figures and tables were viewable without any issue.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical issues found on my end.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

Would like to see more on cultural factors in various areas, including chapter 1 (societies), and the sociocultural model covered in module 2. Again, as I mentioned, the absence of a chapter on sexual/gender disorders takes away an opportunity to discuss more sociocultural factors. This seemed to be an area that the authors could focus on in a revision.

Comments

Overall an interesting book, very similar to other (costly) Abnormal psychology textbooks, and a good option for students. However, I was put off in module 2 where WebMD was cited as a source; this was disconcerting as I always encourage my students to use primary sources in their work. This was very offputting to me.

Reviewed by Angela Duncan, Lecturer, Washburn University Institute of Technology on 6/9/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

For many instructors' purposes, this abnormal psychology text will suffice or maybe exceed expectations given its depth regarding introductory material (i.e biopsychosocial model and models of abnormality). It offers an excellent introduction to abnormal psychology without being cumbersome for the student. However, it is not an ideal option if you are wanting to cover childhood, sexual and gender identity disorders or health psychology-related topics such as sleep disorders as these topics are not included.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Overall, the information is consistent with other abnormal psychology textbooks and the scientific literature.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 3

On page 90, the authors discuss the upcoming release of ICD-11 in 2018. This statement should be updated. I would also like to see updated statistics on the prevalence of mental disorders in the “current views/trends” section (pages 31-32) as the most recent citation is dated 2014. In addition, the information about who seeks treatment could use an update as the newest citation is 2013 (page 91). I would also recommend updated empirical citations reflecting the latest research in the field. However, all texts fall prey to the challenge of staying relevant in some respects so this text is not an anomaly in that regard.

Clarity rating: 5

Descriptions of symptoms and diagnostic criteria are very clear and presented in simple language. Language overall is easy to understand.

Consistency rating: 5

The text's terminology and framework seems internally consistent.

Modularity rating: 5

The text is divided into six sections that can easily be reordered as desired, and the chapters make sense as arranged in each module. I appreciate the merging of somatic symptom disorders with anxiety and OCD.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

At the end of each section, the authors include helpful “key takeaways” to summarize what was addressed, and “review questions” to assess comprehension. Additionally, they include a “module recap” summarizing key points from the entire module.

Interface rating: 4

Images/charts are minimal, but those that are present are helpful and easy to see and interpret. The only image that may pose a clarity issue for some is figure 2.5 illustrating Pavlov’s classical experiment.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The text is well-written, without grammatical errors.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The authors provide an important section on stigma and its relevance to mental disorders as well as a section on multicultural psychology.

Comments

This is the only open access abnormal psychology text that I am aware of, and I commend the authors for a valuable first edition that is easy to read and offers an effective introduction to abnormal psychology. My criticism of this text is minor compared to the accolades. I would highly recommend this text for instructors looking for an abnormal psychology text without the excessive detail but instead concise information palatable to most students.

Reviewed by Ruth Anthony, Faculty, Portland Community College on 6/7/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The content was appropriate and covered a wide range of disorders that are either interesting and/or common in the practicing field. I am also a clinician and found the particular disorders to be the most prevalent while working in community mental health.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

Overall, it appeared to be accurate and error-free. Unbiased, is difficult to measure as this text still pertains to the medical model which is a dominant culture lens and perspective.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

It is relevant to today's standards. It will need to undergo revision as the DSM-5 is updated. It does lack a bit in cultural relevance (see culture review below). As someone who practices as a clinician, it has some nice definitions/summaries in the disorders section. However, it lacks some in application for someone who is unfamiliar with these disorders and how they manifest. Incorporating examples of what this might look like in real life scenarios or as a presenting concern would be helpful for students. It doesn't have to be in this book, it could be something that the educator adds to further enrich students' understanding.

Clarity rating: 5

The text is straightforward, however, a bit dry as most textbooks are. I would recommended this textbook/abnormal phycology class to students who have already completed basic psych courses to have a bit of framework prior to increase their familiarity with the jargon. However, the terminology is well organized with definition for reference.

Consistency rating: 5

The entire text stayed consistent in flow, voice, and framework. The tone is similar to that of many textbooks in the field when provided information or definition. The example case studies are nice break and provide a nice reference to work with throughout.

Modularity rating: 4

The modules were outlined clearly in the table of contents and could easily be broken up into sections for class assignments. Some images to break up each module at the beginning would be nice for some added aesthetics and flare. The interface (see below) could have been a bit better though.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

I was most impressed by the organization as it was clear and straight-forward. It is formatted exactly how I would which is a more technical writing style. This however makes me a bit bias due to the personal preference in organization.

Interface rating: 4

The text could have been organized a bit better. The section breakage for a more aesthetically appealing read was not there. It was reminiscent of strict APA or MLA guidelines in the breakage of section. It felt a big awkward with a title heading being at the end of a page and the accompanying content being on the next page.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

I did not notice any grammatical errors while reading. At least any that stood out enough to make the read difficult or awkward in flow.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

I would have liked to have seen a more in-depth look into cultural difference in applying these disorders. There was brief recognition and consideration, however, at the minimum that I see in most Western texts. There are references to build cultural understanding and humility as part of the standard in practice; a good list of sources would be beneficial. I would use this resource along with several other resources with a more in-depth cultural lens.

Reviewed by Ann Tamulinas, Adjunct Professor, Massachusetts Bay Community College on 5/24/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

It covers most topics and more than adequate background as well. I like that it includes at the end of each section specific takeaways.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

Topics appear to be accurate and references abundant.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

Content is very relevant and includes biological information that is accurate and up to date and not prone to become obsolute.

Clarity rating: 4

Clear language, but a bit dull. Authors managed to make a fascinating subjects not so!

Consistency rating: 5

Text is extremely structured with precise sections and clear language and many definitions.

Modularity rating: 5

Text is divided into many sections and vocabulary defined and grouped in each section.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Again the text is extremely organized from beginning to end. The numbering of the sections is very precise.

Interface rating: 3

Sometimes the text is cut off on the bottom of lines. The look and feel is not appealing--does not grab. More visuals needed and perhaps a better font.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The entire book is well written, but gain not in an interesting style. Too clinical.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

The text is quite neutral in cultural bias. I didn't see any race, ethnicity inclusiveness of any kind.

Comments

I usually teach Computers and Technology and was unable to find a suitable text. I have taught abnormal psychology in the past so I chose this text. I had an excellent textbook (I can't remember the title, though) which was easy to follow as well as informative and interesting to read. While this one is well organized and well written, I would not recommend this text to use other than a reference.

Reviewed by Xin Zhao, Assistant Professor, Salt Lake Community College on 2/24/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

Excellent content offering, comparable to traditional publisher's. The chapters are narrative driven in the beginning. With updated 2nd edition, excellent glossary, references, index, and adequate content.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content is very up to date and accurate, which I compared chapter by chapter during lecture with the DSM-V. Also did a good job noting significant changes from DSM-V-TR and in comparisons with ICD-11.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

The authors did a good job incorporating culturally appropriate updates and timely changes, however, the information in this domain is a little bit thin. I find it helpful to incorporate some more updated changes in the field and current events to supplement the text.

Clarity rating: 5

The written text is excellent. Very easy to read and engaging for the reader, even without technical background. Very appropriately done, especially for psychology students who most likely have been exposed to some of these content in lower level psychology classes. Language and terminology are up to the latest standard.

Consistency rating: 5

Terminology and framework consistent throughout the textbook and in line with DSM-V standards.

Modularity rating: 5

The updated 2nd edition improved on the organization of modules, making the different disorder information easily accessible according to appropriate diagnostic areas.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Perhaps one of the significant strength of this textbook is the organization. Very easy to find relevant disorder and learn about them from a student perspective. With the updated version, it follows closely with how DSM-V is organizing the diagnoses.

Interface rating: 5

Both the Pressbook and pdf versions are clear and displayed correctly.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors detected.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

The textbook made attempts to introduce cultural factors in each respective chapters. However, I would like to see later versions build upon this interest and facilitate more in depth discussions about multiculturalism.

Comments

The ancillary material offered were excellent, including visual-based powerpoint slides, and learning objective based test banks. Highly recommend reaching out to authors to supplement teaching.

Reviewed by Angela Mar, Lecturer, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley on 11/13/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

The textbook does an adequate job of covering the essential topics of the field, and additionally provides a glossary and index that would help a reader find key concepts quickly and efficiently.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

To the extent of this review, the text is accurate and error-free. The textbook states facts, so bias should not be an issue.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

The topic of abnormal psychology is going to be one that is studied for generations to come. Although, the diagnostic manual (DSM) is already in its 5th edition and was created in a way to allow for evolve with times and society, so this textbook will need to be updated to adhere to the newest diagnostic guidelines.

Clarity rating: 4

Students who take an abnormal psychology course are usually in their fourth year, almost ready to graduate. Given this, the textbook's clarity should be on par with that of the students' level.

Consistency rating: 5

The terminology is consisten throughout the text and is in line with the DSM diagnostic guidelines.

Modularity rating: 5

I like who the textbook is divided into diagnostic blocks to help the student become familiar with diagnostic guidelines.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

I like how the book reads like the DSM diagnostic manual. The same class of disorders are paired together to better understand the disorders and the similarities between them, which is helpful because of the incidence of comorbidity.

Interface rating: 5

No problems while reviewing.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors were encountered during the review of this textbook.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

The textbook does a fair job of including cultural awareness and sensitivity into the relaying of demographic information about the incidence of each disorder.

Reviewed by Mary Ann Woodman, Adjunct Professor, Rogue Community College on 8/10/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

Bridley and Daffin provide one of the most comprehensive treatments of mental health and illness offered in an open textbook. The authors cover nearly every subject and learning objective required for a college introductory course on Abnormal Psychology. They begin with a story to capture the reader’s interest and lay out the intention and format so that it is uncomplicated and clearly understood. The writing style appears easy to read, full of useful, insightful information. There is a significant glossary, list references and an index at the end.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content of the text seems quite accurate and up to date. The authors present subject matter in an unbiased and objective manner. The subject matter as well as the notes on changes in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual and International Classification of Diseases are devoid of errors.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

The content seems current and relevant especially to college students who are preparing to work in human services careers. The authors interface statistics, modern research articles and web sites to support the concepts. The text is arranged in a way that new additions could be easily added in the future. The book could use more stories, narratives and visuals supporting the content especially case studies which students may encounter in their lives. Examples of how to apply what one learns to real life would greatly enrich the textbook and easy to coalesce.

Clarity rating: 5

The text is written in lucid, intelligible, easy to read prose. Brief introductions and summaries are offered throughout the book which enhances clarity. No part of the written material seems confusing to the reader. The language and terminology are standard in terms of the learning objectives and information. It may need to be made accessible to students with learning disabilities and thus easily utilized in online course platforms such as Blackboard.

Consistency rating: 5

The text is internally consistent in terms of terminology and framework. The authors might consider spelling out terms in headings such as BDD, BED and FBT. However, the format is totally consistent throughout the entire book.

Modularity rating: 5

The outline of the book is most impressive. The text is readily divisible with reading sections and sub- headings that are precise and uncomplicated. There are no areas with large blocks of text that require further subdivision. The learning objectives are implemented with ease and flow. Having the learning objectives explained is an advantage for college curriculum purposes. There are no sections with an overload of written material nor is there overly self-referential material in the book.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The written material is presented in a logical, explicit and clear fashion. The six modules are laid out with titles and each module subdivided into sections. The authors begin “setting the stage” by introducing the notion of what it means to be normal and move into definitions of abnormality citing the traditional criteria: dysfunction, distress, defiance and danger. They integrate positive psychology with abnormal psychology, so the reader has a broader vision of the field. The history of mental illness, various theories and brief descriptions of the major research methods establish a foundation for the study. Concepts are backed up with research and website references. Clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment contains just the right amount of information. The remainder of the modules treat most of the psychiatric disorders listed in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, with a concise introduction and focus on clinical presentation, epidemiology, comorbidity, etiology, and treatment options. The authors refer the students back to modules 1-3 for reminders of theory and causality. The book includes some information on psychopathology, law, ethics and leaves the reader wondering if gaming is an addiction. It is missing sexual and sleep disorders. Finally, each module is recapped at its close.

Interface rating: 4

The visuals interfaced in the text regarding the nervous system and classical conditioning support the written material. There does not seem to be any distortions, navigation problems or display features that confuse or distract the reader. The remainder of the book contains very few graphs, tables or visuals which would be very useful learning tools to add in the future.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The text contains no grammatical or spelling errors.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

The authors state that “culture-sensitive therapies have been developed increasing awareness of cultural values, hardships, stressors, and/or prejudices, the identification of suppressed anger and pain; and raising the client’s self-worth.” Here is one example: “Individuals from non-Western countries (China and other Asian countries) often focus on the physical symptoms of depression- tiredness, weakness, sleep issues, and less of an emphasis on the cognitive symptoms. Individuals from Latino and Mediterranean cultures often experience problems with “nerves” and headaches as primary symptoms of depression (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Multi-cultural psychology appears somewhat integrated into the text material. Naturally, more examples inclusive of race and ethnicity could be employed in the future including Native American and other indigenous cultures.

Comments

The book includes common treatments used for mental illness: CBT, IPT, Modeling, Biofeedback, Rational-Emotive Therapy, EMDR, Exposure and Desensitization, Hypnosis, Relaxation Training, Aversion Therapy, Emotional Regulation and others. It would be helpful to expand treatment options to include Naturopathy (homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine etc), Orthomolecular Medicine (Nutritional Therapy, and Energy Psychology such as EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique, Reiki, Neuro-linguistic Programming, and Group Therapy Workbooks, such as Anger and Stress Management, Drug and Alcohol Programs or SAMHSA Trauma Informed Care Manual that lists numerous programs for Post Traumatic Stress for example. The authors could provide at least one study on the benefits of spiritual practices such as prayer, ritual, mindfulness, music, tribal dance, yoga etc. The significance of spirituality and religious practices is overlooked. A more comprehensive list of various treatments could be included as an appendix. In the section on the history of mental illness, there could be a comment on the fact that former methods of treatment are still employed today and have been improvised to meet the challenges of modernity. ECT, still used in psychiatric hospitals and exorcism/deliverance therapy employed in various religious traditions are merely two examples. Another option would be to place pharmacology at the end of the treatment list instead of the first, primary one in the sections of each module. Then comment about how prescription drugs have side-affects and are sometimes abused by the recipient. A graph of specific phobias, list of common “stressors” with reference to various stress inventories, and examples of adjustment disorders related to college students would enrich the text . The section on suicide could be expanded further as well as additional treatments and current programs for neurocognitive disorders. Overall, Bridley and Daffin have accomplished a major task in edition one. It would be a welcomed text for a college course in Abnormal Psychology.