Review of Advanced Abnormal Psychology

This book, edited by Van Hasselt and Hersen (see record 1994-97971-000) and designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the field of abnormal psychology at an advanced level, is divided into five topic areas: basic concepts, childhood and adolescent disorders, adult and older adult disorders, child treatment, and adult treatment. The text itself represents a very ambitious undertaking, with 49 contributors producing 26 chapters, and as is often true in a work with many authors, varies in terms of the adequacy and coherence of its coverage. In summary, the editors have assembled a number of chapters discussing issues related to psychopathology such as assessment and research methodology, specific Axis I disorders occurring in children and adults, and treatment approaches. One important topic missing, however, is personality disorders, which represents an important area in the study of psychopathology. This omission limits the overall utility of the book for advanced students. Also, the coverage of several areas shows less depth than one might expect in an advanced text. Finally, the organization of the book, with separate treatment sections for children and adults, often results in content redundancy. Nevertheless, this book may provide a helpful resource for upper-level undergraduates regarding Axis I disorders in adults and children. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)