Starting college soon as a psych major, any must-read psychology books that could prepare me for what's ahead?
Absolutely! It's awesome to see you getting a head start on your chosen major. Here are some books that are usually considered staples in the field of psychology:
1. "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman: This book gives a comprehensive overview of cognitive biases and decision-making processes, introducing important concepts such as System 1 and System 2 thinking.
2. "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" by Oliver Sacks: This offers a series of case studies about patients with different neurological disorders. It's a firsthand look at how brain abnormalities can affect human behavior and perception.
3. "Influence: Science and Practice" by Robert Cialdini: Often used in social psychology courses, this book covers the six universal principles of persuasion.
4. "The Developing Mind" by Daniel J. Siegel: This book provides a foundational understanding of developmental psychology and is frequently used in introductory psychology courses.
5. "The Neuroscientist Who Lost Her Mind" by Barbara K. Lipska: As a neuroscientist who survived brain tumors, Lipska blends her professional and personal experiences into an insightful exploration of the mind-brain connection.
Remember, these books are meant to be introductory and should give you an adequate foundation, from various angles, of the principal concepts you'll likely delve deeper into when classes start. Happy reading!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.