The second edition of this basic text brings together two elements that will keep it the leading book in the field. First, the organization-a life-span developmental approach to the major events in a woman's life-remains intact. It was on this foundation that nearly 300 users of the first edition built their courses. Second, this new edition incorporates those essential findings that have colored major issues since the publication of the successful first edition. These include new research on the biological basis of gender differences and on the effects of hormones on behavior. More emphasis is placed on the daughter-parent relationship, and there is new material on the fear of success, on achievement, and on values. A more extensive discussion of lesbianism adds to an already updated chapter on sexuality. Sections on natural childbirth, mother-infant bonding, and breast-feeding have been expanded as has the discussion on abortion. Material involving women's roles, the single person, childlessness, and dual-career families receive more coverage. Major new sections on violence against women, rape, the battered woman, and sexual harassment have been added. Finally, recent research on aging is considered in light of today's shifting attitudes.
As an expansive and unified treatment of the central issues in feminine psychology, Psychology of Women will remain the first choice among.texts for courses in psychology of women, women's studies, and sociology of women. The author's presentation is well within the grasp of students with no prior training in psychology.