An Introduction to Health Psychology

this is one of the best Health Psychology texts I have read in a while

Anne Whyte, Liverpool John Moores University

Health psychology examines the determinants of health, illness and sick-role behaviours, in an attempt to inform interventions designed to modify such behaviours where required. The Morrison book provides information on all the aspects of health psychology, whereas information about applying knowledge to intervention design is lacking from the [competitor] book.

[On relating health psychology to real life]

I think the Morrison book is better on this aspect the main reason why I prefer the Morrison book... Morrison includes a chapter on health inequalities and chapters on putting health psychology into practice. These topics are not covered in much detail in the [competitor] book.

Martin Dempster, Queens University Belfast.

I particularly like the inclusion of chapters dealing with health inequalities and population approaches to public health as specific areas of relevance to Health Psychologists. These areas are frequently subsumed within other topics in Health Psychology texts and, therefore, sometimes do not receive the attention they deserve.

The text is one of the best I have read in terms of placing theory clearly within society and highlighting the role of culture in health. I fully expect it to encourage students to put research into practice, either on a personal level (by providing detailed information on changing individual health behaviours), or on a professional level by encouraging students to study Health Psychology at Masters level.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, particularly because it has been written from a UK perspective while maintaining and international examination of the research literature. The continuity of themes across chapters and sections will lead students through what can be very complex conceptual models thereby enhancing their learning experience. The use of definitions, diagrams and some very amusing illustrations provides additional depth to the text. The content and tone of the book is ideal for undergraduate students and would provide a great introduction to the topic for those considering studying Health Psychology at postgraduate level. When published I will certainly be recommending it to my students.

Anne Whyte, Liverpool John Moores University

In its consideration of the social context and its coverage of practical issues facing health psychologists, I think this book clearly has the edge over competing UK texts

This book is also highly topical and provides a good theoretical basis as well as excellent consideration of practical applied issues.

Fiona Jones, University of Leeds