Book Description

Making Life Choices: The Psychology of Personal and Interpersonal Growth provides students with a collection of readings related to personal growth coupled with powerful activities to help them explore identity, pinpoint impediments to achieving their goals, build problem-solving skills, and work through individual challenges. The book is designed for use in small groups to cultivate open discussion, diverse viewpoints, and a supportive environment where students can pursue significant personal change. Over the course of 15 chapters, students learn the benefits of working in groups, helpful tips for managing stress, the pitfalls of procrastination, and strategies for successful decision-making. Dedicated chapters address critical thinking, communication, identity development, health and happiness, attraction and relationships, and managing emotions. The volume concludes with readings and activities regarding conflict resolution, finding balance, and continued personal and interpersonal growth. Each chapter features pre- and post-reading questions that encourage critical thinking and honest conversation. A complete program that assists students in understanding and achieving meaningful growth, Making Life Choices is an ideal resource for courses in personal growth psychology. Steven L. Berman obtained his Ph.D. in developmental psychology from Florida International University. He is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Florida. Dr. Berman's research interests include identity development and interventions aimed at promoting positive psychological growth by resolving identity dilemmas and reducing related symptoms of anxiety and distress. He has published numerous peer reviewed articles on various aspects of factors that can impede or facilitate identity development, such as parenting practices, traumatic experiences, peer socialization, cultural influences, globalization, and use of communication technology.