Angelo State Psychology Prof Co-Authors Book Explaining Why People are Crazy

SAN ANGELO, TX — Dr. Drew Curtis of the Angelo State University psychology faculty has co-authored a new book on abnormal behavior that is now available for purchase through the Kendall Hunt Publishing Company.

Titled “Foundations of Abnormality: Myths, Misconceptions, and Movies,” the book is designed to provide readers with the fundamental components needed to understand abnormal behavior and to challenge myths. The foundations are a concise version of Curtis’ first book, “Abnormal Psychology: Myths of ‘Crazy,’” which is the primary textbook for ASU’s upper-level abnormal psychology course.

From the back cover of Curtis’ new book, “People are deeply fascinated with abnormal behavior and desire to understand why people do things that seem unusual. When individuals seek an understanding of abnormal behavior, they are often attempting to answer questions about others or themselves. While there is an appeal to observe abnormal behavior, people generally want to do so from a safe distance. Movies satisfy this interest to glimpse at abnormality from the safety of our home or a movie theatre; however, many movies and other media sources appear to strongly promote myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings about abnormality.”

“If you are ready to develop an understanding of abnormal behavior and reconsider the myths perpetuated within popular culture,” Curtis said, “then open up this book and dig in to begin establishing, or deconstructing, your foundation.”

An ASU faculty member since August 2013, Curtis is an assistant professor of psychology and director of ASU’s nationally recognized counseling psychology graduate program. He is also an elected professional representative on the Executive Council of the Southwestern Psychological Association.

In addition to his books, Curtis has been published in various psychology journals, including the International Journal for the Advancement of Counseling, Journal of Relationships Research, North American Journal of Psychology and American Journal of Psychological Research. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Sam Houston State University and his doctorate from Texas Woman’s University.

Curtis’ co-author for “Foundations of Abnormality” is Dr. Leslie Kelley, chair of the Behavioral and Cultural Sciences Department at North Central Texas College. He was also the co-author for Curtis’ first book.