Essentials is a streamlined version of the Psychology: Journey of Discovery larger text. Like JOD, Essentials approaches the first course in psychology as a "discovery experience," both in describing the scientific theory and research within the discipline and in describing the introductory students' experience in learning about themselves and others. I use a story-telling approach to describe the science of psychology and reinforce the discovery theme by including "Journey of Discovery Questions" and "Self-Discovery," "Closer Look," and "Exploring Culture & Diversity" boxed inserts throughout the chapters. Each chapter ends with a "Psychological Applications" section which applies specific chapter content to the students' lives.