Books published by Open University Press

This book examines the similarities, differences and points of integration in the main models and theories of psychopathology and how their associated clinical practice do not represent scientific fact so much as a variation in perspective within psychopathology itself.

This book draws out the essence of a range of personality theories in a clear and accessible way, moving from the seminal works of Freud and other prominent analytical theorists, to the stage theories of Erikson and Levinson and the development of personality as it is viewed in existential and person-centred theory.

Drawing upon personal narratives, rhetoric, material discourse, discourse analysis, cultural representation, ethnography and contextual studies, this book seeks to emphasize the multi-dimensional and multi-functional nature of disability language to understand disability and locate it within the mainstream social and cultural theory.

Discusses the appreciation, evaluation and conduct of social research. This book is suited for nurses, social workers, community workers and those in the caring professions. It is focused on research which evaluates and contributes to professional practice.

A guide for counselors and therapists working with people who are lesbian, gay or bisexual. It provides an overview of lesbian, gay and bisexual psychology, and examines some of the differences between lesbians, gays and bisexuals, and heterosexuals. It proposes a model of gay affirmative therapy.

The book integrates psychological theory with the practice of health and clinical psychology in the hospital and in the broader context of health care. It considers both clinical interventions and those of a non-clinical nature that also impact on patients and health-care workers.

Using Experience for Learning reflects current interest in the importance of experience in informal and formal learning, whether it be applied for course credit, new forms of learning in the workplace, or acknowledging autonomous learning outside educational institutions.

Clearly set out in three specific sections, this book argues that that existing grading practices cannot cope with the expectations laid upon them, while the potential of formative assessment for the support of learning is not fully realised, discusses how institutions need to respond in policy terms to the challenges that have been posed.

Discusses the complex relationships between psychology, criminology and criminal justice. This book challenges the assumptions of those who object to the use of psychology within criminology and shows how a methodical approach to the study of criminal behaviour can generate both systematic findings and practical solutions to problems.

The book provides a breadth of information about positive psychology, and practical tips and tools throughout on how to practice so that you flourish.

The key themes in play are explored through an A - Z approach covering key concepts, theories / theorists, and figures.

This book guides new researchers through the different stages of small-scale or practitioner research.

We all know that small classes are better than large classes; that children are best taught in groups according to their ability; that some schools are much better than others and that we should teach children according to their individual learning styles ...or do we? This book asks awkward questions about these sacred cows of education.

Looking for a quick and effective way to revise and test your knowledge? This book helps student midwives to revise and prepare for their anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology exams. It includes over 450 questions relating to your midwifery course, and includes a variety of question types including multiple choice, and true and false.

This introductory text is perfect for students new to the specialised area of the theoretical constructs underlying health and humanitarian work.

This book helps trainee and practicing doctors to understand supervision and to engage with it in a way that will assist their professional development.

Assessment for Learning is based on a two-year project involving thirty-six teachers in schools in Medway and Oxfordshire.

Surveys how different schools of therapy approach a basic topic, and the differences that exist between people. This book examines the use of typologies of character and personality as a clinical tool; and offers general criteria for judging the merits of particular personality systems, as well as exploring the possibility of a wider synthesis.

Art education has shifted its relevance to the more feminine skills of flexibility, management, and combinatory modes of creativity. This book traces the main gendered themes of modernist art education since the 19th century. It looks at the way art education has been implicated in producing gendered identities for modernity's divisions of labour.

Provides an overview of such topics as the differences and similarities between public and private sector management, the development of networks and partnerships, the impacts of politics and citizen participation on public administration, and more. This book is aimed at students, teachers and practising managers.

Offers a perspective on the relationship between leadership and school improvement. This book emphasises the importance of maximising the leadership capabilities of all those within the organization, and provides guidance about the way in which this is achieved. It contains case study illustrations.

Provides a take on life from the perspective of a child who has no sight and no speech and who uses a wheelchair because of physical disabilities. The book offers a glimpse into the thoughts of such a child, recognizing that family and support workers sometimes get things right and sometimes don't.

Presents evidence and practical guidance on how to develop young children's emerging language, especially those children who have English as an additional language, and how to generate, activate and assess curriculum for diversity. This book focuses on children's learning for cultural diversity. It also includes real examples and staff activities.