The 15th edition of Abnormal Psychology provides a current and fresh perspective. The book has been redesigned to remain visually engaging to a new generation of students. Most chapters now begin with a case study that illustrates the mental health problems to be addressed in the chapter. This serves to capture students’ interest and attention right from the outset. Numerous new photographs and illustrations have also been added.

    In addition, this edition also contains updated case material (four new case studies in Chapter 5 alone), new unresolved issues (e.g., the medical use of marijuana; the increasing use of cognitive enhancers to improve functioning in healthy people), and new feature boxes designed to be of high interest to students (e.g., Does playing Tetris after a traumatic event reduce flashbacks?). Reflecting the ever-changing field of abnormal psychology, hundreds of new references have been added. Outdated material has been replaced, current findings have been included, and new developments have been identified.

    The 15th edition also includes the most up to date and in depth information about the role of biological factors in abnormal behavior, while at the same time placing this in the context of a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach. Our coverage of cultural issues and diversity has also been strengthened. Readers will be also be pleased to know that all of this has been accomplished without adding length to the book!

    A major change in this new edition is the focus on DSM-5. This important revision to the diagnostic system is scheduled to be published in 2013. Anticipating this, we now include specialized feature boxes highlighting many of the changes that are likely to be made in DSM-5. Other important changes that are expected in DSM-5 are also mentioned throughout the text when relevant and necessary. Providing students with this material ahead of the publication of DSM-5 reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and our desire to provide students with the most up to date information possible.

1. Abnormal Psychology: An Overview
2. Historical and Contemporary Views of Abnormal Behavior
3. Causal Factors and Viewpoints
4. Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
5. Stress and Physical and Mental Health
6. Panic, Anxiety, and Their Disorders
7. Mood Disorders and Suicide
8. Somatoform and Dissociative Disorders
9. Eating Disorders and Obesity
10. Personality Disorders
, etc.