10 Psychology Books that Every MA Psychology Student Must Read

An MA in psychology will allow you to explore further into human behaviour, cognition, and emotions. To supplement your academic pursuits, add these five outstanding books to your reading collection. They include different viewpoints, breakthrough research, and practical applications, making them indispensable resources for any aspiring psychology scholar

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: This Nobel Prize-winning book explores the two systems of human thought: the fast, intuitive System 1 and the slower, more deliberate System 2. Understanding these systems is crucial for comprehending decision-making, biases, and human behaviour in general.
2. The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry by Jon Ronson: This captivating blend of science journalism and personal exploration delves into the world of psychopathy. Ronson explores the challenges of diagnosing and understanding psychopaths, raising intriguing questions about sanity and human nature.
3. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown: This book champions vulnerability and self-acceptance. Brown’s research on shame and courage is a breath of fresh air, encouraging readers to embrace their imperfections and build meaningful connections.
4. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl: A harrowing yet inspiring account of Viktor Frankl’s experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Frankl explores the importance of finding meaning in life, even amidst suffering, a concept with profound implications for understanding human resilience.
5. The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt: This book explores different philosophical perspectives on happiness and well-being. Haidt challenges the notion that maximizing positive emotions is the sole key to happiness, offering a more nuanced view on human flourishing.
6. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari: While not strictly a psychology book, Sapiens provides a captivating exploration of human evolution and our place in the natural world. Understanding our history informs how we view human behaviour and psychology.
7. Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua Foer: This book shatters the myth of having a bad memory. Foer delves into the world of memory champions and their techniques, revealing the potential of our brains and offering practical strategies for memory improvement.
8. Strangers in a Strange Land by Robert A. Heinlein: This science fiction classic explores human nature through the eyes of a Martian raised on a planet with vastly different social norms. It raises thought-provoking questions about cultural relativity, perception, and the very definition of “normal.”
9. Thinking in Systems by Donella Meadows: This book introduces the concept of systems thinking, a crucial skill for psychologists. By understanding how different components interact within a system, we can better understand human behaviour in its social context.
10. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk: This groundbreaking book explores the impact of trauma on the mind and body. It sheds light on the complex ways trauma manifests and offers insights into therapeutic approaches for healing.

Popular & Effective English Literature Books by Indian Authors for MA English Students

Conclusion:

This list is only a starting point! The field of psychology contains a wide number of books to examine. Remember, the most significant books are those that grab your interest and challenge your thinking. As you continue your study, let these books to accompany you on your quest to comprehend the human mind.

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From
Ms. Monica Thongam Nakra
Associate Professor
School of Humanities & Social Sciences
Lingaya’s Vidyapeeth
Best College in Delhi NCR for MA Psychology