Synopsis
Uses science projects to explore such areas of psychology as personality, emotions, perception, learning, memory, and parapsychology.
School Library Journal
Gr 7-Up Though the title certainly doesn't sell this book, the content should. Following a brief introduction that covers the scientific method and possible safety issues, some 35 experiments are organized into 7 topical chapters: "Early Experiments in Psychology," "Perception," "Emotion," "Personality," "Learning and Memory," "Thought and Thinking," and "Parapsychology." Two to 10 experiments follow that will intrigue, amuse, and illuminate concepts for students. Clearly explained, with excellent instructional or clarifying illustrations and an inset list of "Things you will need," each activity constitutes a "test" that explains some aspect of human (and some animal) behavior, concludes with "Exploring on Your Own" suggestions and, when needed, with cleanup tips. Experiments range from familiar standbys like visual illusions (which arrow is longer, reversible diagrams a la Escher, etc.) to traditional (memory chunking, extrovert/introvert, etc.) and more exotic tests for clairvoyance, precognition, telekinesis, and so forth. Many of these experiments could be adapted for classroom or even party use, as they are geared for high interest. The book concludes with a list of suppliers of scientific equipment, recommendations for further research, and a limited but sufficient index. A rather specialized but well-done and potentially fascinating addition. -Mary R. Hofmann, Rivera Middle School, Merced, CA Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.