In Essentials of Psychology, authors Saul Kassin, Gregory J. Privitera, and Krisstal D. Clayton propel students into a clear, vibrant understanding of psychological science with an integrative, learn-by-doing approach. Students assume the role of a psychologist, carrying out experiments and making predictions. Compelling storytelling, real-life examples, and the authors’ active practice approach encourages critical thinking and engagement.

Essentials of Psychology introduces contemporary psychological research and caters to the varied needs of students and instructors. The book is composed of 14 basic chapters, which provide comprehensive coverage of theories and research within each of the traditional areas of psychology. Chapters are dedicated to topics that discuss the major divisions of psychology; the physiological basis of behavior; the ways people change and the ways they stay the same over time; personality and behavior assessment; and treatment of psychological problems. Psychologists, students, and teachers of psychology will find this textbook very invaluable.

An excellent primer on the key concepts of psychometrics Essentials of Psychological Testing surveys the basic principles of psychometrics, supplies the information needed to understand and evaluate tests, and introduces readers to the major contemporary reference works in the field. It is the only book to provide such a thorough and up-to-date overview of psychometrics in an engaging, accessible format. As part of the Essentials of Behavioral Science series, this book offers an overview of the most relevant psychometric concepts and techniques that provides the foundation necessary for knowledgeable, informed practice. Each concise chapter features numerous callout boxes highlighting key concepts, bulleted points, and extensive illustrative material, as well as "Test Yourself" questions that help to gauge and reinforce readers' grasp of the information covered. Starting with a basic introduction to psychological tests, their historical development, and their uses, Essentials of Psychological Testing also covers the statistical procedures most frequently used in testing, the frames of reference for score interpretation, reliability, validity, and test item considerations, as well as guidelines for test selection, administration, scoring, and reporting test results. Whether as an orientation for those new to the field, a refresher for those already acquainted with it, or as a reference for seasoned clinicians, Essentials of Psychological Testing is an invaluable resource on the fundamentals of this evolving area of practice.