About the Book
Self-help materials have become a prime source of psychological advice for millions of Americans. While many self-help resources provide high-quality information and support, others may be misleading, inaccurate, or even harmful. This volume reveals which are the good ones, which are the bad ones, and why. Based on the results of five national studies involving over 2500 mental health professionals, the book reviews and rates more than 600 self-help books, autobiographies, and popular films. In addition, hundreds of helpful Internet sites are described and evaluated by a clinical psychologist, and listings are provided of national and online support groups. The concluding chapter presents practical guidelines for selecting an effective self-help resource. Addressing 28 of the most prevalent clinical disorders and life challenges - from ADHD, Alzheimer's, and anxiety disorders, to marital problems and mood disorders, to weight management and women's issues - this timely book will be tremendously useful to consumers and professionals alike.
Table of Contents:
Introduction to Self-Help in Mental Health. Abuse. Addictive Disorders and Codependency. Adult Development and Aging. Anger. Anxiety Disorders. Assertiveness. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Career Development. Child Development and Parenting. Communication and People Skills. Death and Grieving. Dementia/Alzheimer's. Divorce. Eating Disorders. Families and Stepfamilies. Love and Intimacy. Marriage. Men's Issues. Mood Disorders. Pregnancy. Schizophrenia. Self-Management and Self-Enhancement. Sexuality. Spiritual and Existential Concerns. Stress Management and Relaxation. Teenagers and Parenting. Weight Management. Women's Issues. Strategies for Selecting Self-Help Resources. Appendices. A. The Five National Studies. B. Ratings of Self-Help Books in the National Studies. C. Ratings of Autobiographies in the National Studies. D. Ratings of Movies in the National Studies.
About the Author :
John C. Norcross, PhD, is Professor and former Chair of Psychology at the University of Scranton. John W. Santrock, PhD, is Professor and former Chair of Psychology at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Linda F. Campbell, PhD, is Associate Professor and director of the training clinic in the Department of Counseling and Human Development at the University of Georgia.
Thomas P. Smith, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist in the Counseling Center at the University of Scranton.
Robert Sommer, PhD, is Professor and former Chair of Psychology at the University of California, Davis.
Edward L. Zuckerman, PhD, a clinical psychologist, teacher, and author, is Editor of the Clinician's Toolbox series.
Review :
"This extraordinarily comprehensive, thoughtfully researched, well organized, and fun-to-read book should be very helpful to those who want to help themselves. The next time I'm asked 'Could you suggest something to read about...' or 'Are there any good Internet resources I could look at?', I'll be reaching for the Authoritative Guide. Kudos to John Norcross and his colleagues!" --Michael F. Hoyt, PhD, author of Some Stories Are Better than Others and Brief Therapy and Managed Care; editor of The Handbook of Constructive Therapies and Constructive Therapies, Volumes 1 & 2 "An exceptional and truly authoritative guide for consumers seeking a range of resources and for professional referrals. The volume impartially and judiciously surveys all the important paths commonly used by self-help consumers, clearly presenting its valuable findings. It is replete with remarkably comprehensive references for anyone interested in mental health." --Albert Ellis, PhD, President, Albert Ellis Institute, New York City
"A comprehensive resource of great practical value to mental health professionals, their clients, and other interested readers. This monumental volume offers two outstanding features: the collective wisdom of the professional community, and practical strategies for evaluating self-help resources." --Robert E. Alberti, PhD
"Intended for the mental health professional and the general public, this book provides an exhaustive and excellent guide to mental health self-help resources nationwide. Research has shown that the self-help approach can be effective, either in conjunction with therapy or alone. However, since the quality of resources may vary, a guide such as this is important for those seeking accurate information. Mental health problems are described in detail. The authors have done an excellent job of evaluating self-help books, autobiographies, movies, and the internet, rating them for quality. They also list support and educational groups, although without rating them. A chapter on strategies for evaluating and choosing a resource will be especially helpful for busy professionals who want to recommend a book or movie to a client. The lay public, too, may find help among the myriad of choices here. This book is to be strongly recommended for both types of readers."-- "Readings"
"The writing style is professional, but avoids jargon. Recommended for libraries supporting programs in counseling and psychology." -- "Choice"
"Psychologists will find the "Authoritative Guide to Self-Help Resources in Mental Health "especially helpful for suggestions on what books, movies, and Websites to recommend to their patients. Psychology teachers can use it to supplement their assignments both in and out of the classroom. Librarians can use the "Guide" for buying suggestions and for patron questions. Its inexpensive price and valuable subject make it a must purchase for most libraries." -- "American Reference Books Annual"
