The handbook of culture & psychology /

This collection offers 23 new essays and could serve as a companion to the first edition. There is no general introduction or preface, but each essay has an introduction and a very extensive bibliography. Some have appendixes and other additional information. Enhancements include black-and-white illustrations and quotes and excerpts from other writings. The essays are divided into basic categories, which include foundations, development, basic processes, personality and abnormal psychology, social behavior, and emerging ideas. They examine several aspects, including history and development of concepts and theories, theoretical methodology, effects of climate (weather-related, political or social), emotions, and gender-related concerns. They often include an examination of the current literature and a consideration of future developments and applications. Several of the authors also contributed to the first edition and to Handbook of Cross-Cultural Psychology (1996). The essays are very thoroughly researched and written in logical and comprehensive styles. A comprehensive index completes the volume. An interesting, up-to-date examination of a very appropriate, current topic that concerns not only current conditions but their implications for the future. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty. --Martha Lawler, Louisiana State University in Shreveport