Attitudes and Persuasion

Description

Philip Erwin provides an accessible, up-to-date overview of the crucial role that attitudes play in our everyday lives and how they influence our thoughts and behaviour. The nature, function and origins of attitudes are examined, and a review of how they can be measured is provided. The book then addresses the complex issues of whether we always behave in accordance with our attitudes and what factors may influence us to change our attitudes. This is linked to a final chapter on contemporary theoretical explanations of attitude change and persuasion.

Phil Erwin has taught and researched in social psychology for over 20 years. He has written numerous journal articles and two previous books. He is currently Head of Psychology at the University of North London.

'...students entering this field tent to be faced with a mass of theories and studies that are rather incomprehensible unless one has a 'map'. This short text provides such a map the 'light' writing style and use of everyday examples will surely ensure that it works as an attractive and easy to follow guide' - Nick Hopkins, University of Dundee 'Attitudes and Persuasion would appear to have few rivals in its primer niche.' - Timothy C. Brock in PsycCRITIQUES, February 2004