How to Recognize Credible Self-Help Books
Tips on Evaluating Self-Help Reading on Psychology Topics
Oct 6, 2008
The shelves at any bookstore reveal how popular self-help material has become. It is possible to find advice on almost everything. However, not all self-help books are equally beneficial, particularly in the field of psychology.
Credible Self-Help Books
A psychology self-help reading ought to have certain attributes for it to be a responsible, credible book.
If a self-help book is written by an accredited professional (with degrees and professional association membership), it most likely contains useful information. If this accredited professional also has practical experience in the field, it is likely to be a very informative read.
For psychology topics, credible authors include psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and marital and family therapists. These professionals are generally well-trained, have practical experience, and are bound by codes of ethics that require them to publish responsibly.
Self-help psychology books written by authors lacking practical experience but possessing relevant research backgrounds can also provide important practical insights.
Or, a non-professional author who has acquired relevant knowledge (perhaps through personal experience) but who has had the contents of the book endorsed by a psychology professional can also be a useful resource.
Self-help books written by authors sharing personal stories, although not providing professional expertise per se, can provide readers with new ideas and support through difficult times.
Any self-help book in psychology that makes responsible, not exaggerated claims regarding the effectiveness of the book is most likely written by a responsible, credible author.
Dubious Self-help Books
Any self-help book on a psychology topic that claims to be a one-stop solution applicable to everyone is making grandiose and inappropriate claims.
One thing that is certain about psychology is that there exists no one-size-fits-all option. Everyone responds differently to solutions and programs and readers ought to carefully reconsider any book claiming a certain or a near certain fix.
Self-help books on psychology issues authored by non-professional, inexperienced authors providing non-endorsed advice, ought to signal readers to expect little from these books beyond entertainment.
Reasons for Self-Help Reading
If a book is being purchased to help overcome emotional or behavioral difficulties or to find support and insight, it is as important to identify the author credentials as it is to read the book description. A self-help book that is being purchased for a quick light read need not be so well-evaluated.
The right self-help reading can be a wonderful way to gain insight and feel supported. However, the wrong book written with exaggerated promises of problem resolution can leave readers feeling frustrated and incompetent.
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