Fundamental Concepts in Clinical Psychology

The authors of this book feel that clinical psychology is extremely complex one. It requires a broad understanding that is not easily attained. As such no progressive study has been provided for the student of clinical psychology. In some cases the student begins a formal course in the clinical field with a little background of this study. In general psychology or in other cases no formal course is provided until the student is well along in graduate program. Thus the books available to the students are either specialized manuals for clinical study or books meant for measurement or evaluation. In view of these facts this book represents an effort to present a systematic and integrated group of topics that are fundamentally helpful and satisfactory progressive movement in the clinical field. The emphasis of the book is placed on Theory and Methodology which is most useful student in clinical psychology and to the person who has developed some competence with clinical techniques. For the beginning student the book should serve as an introduction to the later training and practice. For the advanced student the book will tie together the personality and clinical field in such a way as to give his procedures more meaning. This text book of course, is not designed to serve a clinical manual. It depends upon direct experience and broad reading and understanding of human nature and constant attention to the latest research. The book encourages the student to become something more than a technician who interprets and helps him to develop a greater responsibility for making progress in the development of knowledge and procedures. It is probable that many people will find the book useful not only a text book but also a reference book. Because the status of present knowledge is best seen in relation to its historical development, some attention has been given to the history of the understanding and treatment of mental diseases. The knowledge of other disciplines has also been provided to the students in so far as it is related to clinical study along with its historical aspect. A knowledge of the development of the modern clinic has also been provided.