Invitation to the Psychology of Religion 3rd edition

Paloutzian intended to revise the second edition, but during the intervening 20, he essentially wrote an entirely new textbook, which he says could be subtitled Foundations, Issues, and Building Blocks. He intends it to be an anchor for an undergraduate course in the psychology of religion, or nowadays, psychology of religion and spirituality. Instructors tend to supplement it with other materials such as books, chapters, articles, exercises, and audiovisual presentations. His goal is to illustrate basic issues of psychology using religion as a case study. Annotation ©2016 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)
The leading undergraduate psychology of religion text, this engaging book synthesizes cutting-edge theories and findings into an accessible account enlivened by personal reflections and contemporary examples. Raymond F. Paloutzian offers an authoritative overview of basic science; experiential, developmental, personality, and sociocultural dimensions of religion and spirituality; and clinical implications. Students are also given food for thought about bigger questions--how religion influences their own lives; what beliefs or values they hold most dear; and how to live in a multicultural, multireligious world. Each chapter opens with a brief topic outline and concludes with "Take-Home Messages" and suggestions for further reading. New to This Edition: *Reflects 20 years of scientific and theoretical advances. *Chapters on psychological theories, personality, and physical health. *New organizing concepts: religious meaning systems and the multilevel interdisciplinary paradigm. *Additional pedagogical features, including end-of-chapter "Take-Home Messages" and engaging topic boxes. *Descriptions of cutting-edge research methods. *Increased attention to multicultural issues.