31/07/2016

july psychology reads

We all know how good some reading is for a fab personal statement. Uni recommended books can be intimidating, but here are some fave popular psychology books which I've borrowed from the library and really enjoyed reading for pleasure this month. I'd recommend these to any aspiring psychology students!

The Marshmallow Test: Understanding Self-control and How to Master It - Walter Mischel



Since reading this, I can't say that I've suddenly given up sugar and started running every day. But I now understand Mischel's research into self-control, the 'hot' and 'cool' impulses, and delayed gratification, which is super fun.


So, You've Been Publicly Shamed - Jon Ronson

I found this one super fun as well as engendering of empathy. Ronson interviews victims of shaming - some woman on twitter who made an insensitive AIDS joke, etc - and discusses how this one moment of stupidity can have huge impacts on a person's life due to a social media-fed shaming culture. Great for those interested in shame as punishment, too.

The Brain: The Story of You - David Eagleman


A more scientifically based book, packed full of colour illustrations and accessible facts on a huge range of subject matter. Word use in advertising, the teenage brain, cryogenic preservation and artificial senses all are discussed here. A solid foundation in neuroscience, and not too long either!


Reasons to Stay Alive - Matt Haig

This is structured in short, snappy, anecdotal sections, woven through with  theories on the origin and treatment of depression, and accounts of the author's own experience with mental illness. You've also probably seen this quoted on tumblr before. Devastating numbness and sadness is lined with a beautiful feeling of hope here, as the author looks back on his past self.


How Not To Die - Michael Greger


This is only tenuously linked to psychology, but it was really interesting to read about the mental health benefits of a plant based diet with plenty of beans, nuts, greens, fruits, whole grains and spices. If you want to be motivated to eat better, this is your book!


Let me know if you read any of these, psychologists! Summer is a perfect time for books : )
Lots of love and library cards,
L

2 comments:

  1. I had watched the Marshmallow Test which was tested on children. It had been really interesting to see their reactions. It was also funny to see a few different ways of the marshmallow being eaten! I also have read a book which contains elements of psychology and relates to personality. It's called" Think You Know Who You Are?". But all of these book choices seem appealing so I'll definitely check them out!

    #sweetreats xx www.bakingboutiquebirds.blogspot.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
  2. I had watched the Marshmallow Test which was tested on children. It had been really interesting to see their reactions. It was also funny to see a few different ways of the marshmallow being eaten! I also have read a book which contains elements of psychology and relates to personality. It's called" Think You Know Who You Are?". But all of these book choices seem appealing so I'll definitely check them out!

    #sweetreats xx www.bakingboutiquebirds.blogspot.co.uk

    ReplyDelete