Psychology in Asia: An introduction
Posted on: March 3, 2024
In the realm of psychology education, diversity isn't just a buzzword; it's a necessity. The demand for culturally relevant and inclusive resources in psychology education has never been more pressing as the world becomes increasingly interconnected. Addressing this need, the book "Psychology in Asia: An Introduction" emerges as a beacon of insight, offering a unique perspective that bridges the gap between Western theories and the intricacies of Asian cultures, making it a valuable resource for Asian students.
In response to the absence of culturally relevant psychology texts in Asia, "Psychology in Asia" stands as a collaborative effort, a testament to the authenticity and credibility of the insights it offers. Born from the experiences and insights of educators in Asia, this textbook is a collective realization that traditional Western-centric texts often fall short in capturing the nuances of Asian societies.
At its core, "Psychology in Asia: An Introduction" serves as a testament to the authors' commitment to empowering students with knowledge that resonates with their everyday experiences. By integrating research, philosophical reflections, and psychological practices rooted in Asia, the book offers a holistic understanding of psychology that reflects the diverse tapestry of Asian cultures.
One of the defining features of "Psychology in Asia" is its comprehensive coverage of essential topics in psychology, ranging from cognition and consciousness to personality and psychotherapy. This thoroughness ensures that students are exposed to a wide range of perspectives, making the book a reliable source of information.
Moreover, this book devotes special attention to two unique chapters that serve as pillars of the book's identity. The chapter on "Philosophical Roots of Asian Psychology" delves into the rich philosophical traditions that have shaped psychological thought in Asia, offering students a deeper appreciation of the cultural underpinnings of psychological discourse in the region. Similarly, the chapter on "Tenets of Asian Psychology" provides invaluable insights into the distinct principles and perspectives that characterize psychological inquiry in Asia, enriching students' understanding of psychology beyond Western paradigms.
The release of its latest edition, "Psychology in Asia: An Introduction," reaffirms its commitment to staying abreast of the evolving landscape of psychological research. In recognizing the burgeoning interest in understanding the psychology of Asian individuals, the new edition incorporates cutting-edge findings and emerging theories tailored to unravel the intricacies of Asian cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns. By doing so, the book illuminates the cultural specificity of psychological phenomena and equips students with the tools to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural interactions with sensitivity and insight. From foundational concepts in introductory psychology to specialized topics such as positive psychology and psychotherapies, each chapter of the book serves as a gateway to deeper exploration, inviting students to engage critically with the material and its cultural implications.
In essence, "Psychology in Asia – An Introduction" transcends the confines of a textbook; it embodies a paradigm shift in psychology education that embraces diversity and celebrates the richness of human experience.
About the editors
Catherine Tien-Lun Sun is recognized as a leader and pioneer in Chinese psychology and counselling. She is currently Professor of Counselling and Psychology as well as Senior Vice President at Hong Kong Shue Yan University, an institution founded on the preservation and propagation of traditional Chinese culture and the educational ideals of Confucianism. As the former Head of the only department to offer undergraduate counselling training in Hong Kong, and as founding President of the Asian Professional Counselling and Psychology Association and President of the Asia Pacific Rim Confederation of Counsellors, Sun is regarded as a leader and chief architect of the development of counselling and psychological therapy in Asia.
Jason Tak-Sang Chow is Associate Professor of Counselling and Psychology, Acting Associate Academic Vice President (Teaching and Learning Development) and Director of the Student Learning and Development Laboratory at Hong Kong Shue Yan University. As a social psychologist, Chow's primary research interests encompass self-control, motivation, and human resilience, with a particular focus on the motivational aspects of self-regulation, as well as investigating the causes and consequences of human resilience.