The Essential Psychology series bridges the gap between simple introductory texts aimed at pre-university students and higher level textbooks for upper level undergraduates. Each volume in the series is designed to provide concise yet up-to-date descriptions of the major areas of psychology for first year undergraduates or students taking psychology as a supplement to other courses of study. The author, an acknowledged expert in the field, explains the basics carefully and engagingly without the over-simplification often found in introductory textbooks, at the same time providing the reader with insights into current thinking.