Introduction to Psychology and Counseling: Christian Perspectives and Applications, 2nd ed.
Overview
This explanation of classic theory features many relevant essays on persons, ideas, and applications. Not only is the text organized according to introductory counseling courses, but it is also a reference tool of enduring value.
Subject areas include:
- Personality
- Classic psychological theory
- The biological basis of behavior
- Emotions and motivation
- Memory, cognition, self-concept
- Child and adult development
- Sensation and perception
- Social psychology
- Individual and family counseling
- Psychology of religion
- Abnormal psychology
- Individual and group therapy
Top Highlights
“Obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterized by recurrent obsessions (irrational thoughts) or compulsions (irrational actions). The most common obsessions are thoughts of contamination, doubt, or violence. The most common compulsions include repetitive handwashing, checking, and touching.” (Page 277)
“The second characteristic of motivation is that it describes purposeful behavior.” (Page 85)
“motivation is real and has two characteristics. The first is that it influences and directs behavior” (Page 85)
“The concept of motivation has been a difficult one for psychologists to define. The meaning of the word seems to change according to the individual psychologist’s orientation to the study of the human being. Those who focus on human biological functioning tend to think of motivation primarily in relation to bodily needs. Other psychologists perceive humans as motivated primarily by inner feelings and rational decision making. Scientists who focus on humans as social beings tend to relate motivation to interpersonal functioning.” (Page 85)
“Listening is one of the best ways to express concern or caring.” (Page 313)
From the physical basis to counseling modalities, this is the obvious textbook of choice for schools desiring to teach psychology from a Christian viewpoint. This is great for upper division high school or a general course for college students.
—Online Review
This book is laid out well and covers the topics of Psychology beautifully. It thoroughly integrates the Christian philosophy in what has been thus far considered a non-Christian topic. This book gives my students a well rounded approach to the subject of Psychology using the Bible and Neurophysiology as its base.
—Online Review
- Title: Introduction to Psychology and Counseling: Christian Perspectives and Applications, 2nd ed.
- Authors: Paul D. Meier, Frank B. Minirth, Frank B. Wichern, and Donald E. Ratcliff
- Publisher: Baker Academic
- Publication Date: 1991
- Pages: 368
Paul D. Meier is a nationally recognized psychiatrist and the founder of Meier Clinics, with over thirty clinic programs located throughout the country.
Frank Minirth is a diplomat of both the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Forensic Medicine. He holds doctoral degrees in both theology and medicine. Dr. Minirth has been in private practice in the Dallas area since 1975. He has degrees from Arkansas State University, Arkansas School of Medicine, and Dallas Theological Seminary. He is president of the Minirth Clinic, P.A., in Richardson, Texas, and consultant to the Minirth Christian Program at Green Oaks Behavior Healthcare Services. He is also Adjunct Professor in the Pastoral Ministries and Counseling Department at Dallas Theological Seminary. Dr. Minirth is heard nationally on radio and television, and he has authored or co-authored approximately sixty books, including the best-sellers Happiness Is a Choice, Love is a Choice, and Love Hunger.
Frank B. Wichern is a Clinical Psychologist in Richardson, Texas.
Donald E. Ratcliff is Price-LeBar Professor of Christian Education, Wheaton College. He has authored several books and academic papers in the field of child development.