| dc.description.abstract | Reviews the book “Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Advances in Research and Practice”, edited by Richard G. Heimberg, Cynthia L. Turk, and Douglas S. Mennin (see record 2004-16375-000). This book provides a good overview of the past and current status of the diagnostic entity of GAD. This book presents a thorough historical context for GAD so as to explain the current thinking and future directions within this area. The book appears to have been written for both researchers and practitioners; it presents state-of-the-art science, areas that still require further investigation, and current evidence-supported practices in the treatment of GAD. As such, the book is divided into three parts. The first examines the most salient features that comprise the diagnosis of GAD and discusses epidemiological and etiological factors of the disorder. The second addresses the theoretical underpinning of the disorder and current conceptualizations and mechanisms that underlie the development of GAD, and the third concentrates on clinical applications and assessment and treatment approaches to GAD. The opening chapters start by very effectively defining GAD and its main characteristic feature, excessive and uncontrollable worry. Moreover, the book presents a three-pathway etiological model (genetic influences, temperamental contributions, and environmental influences) comprising the most up-to-date scientific evidence of the etiology of GAD. According to the reviewer, somewhat neglected in this book is a newer area of exploration: namely, emotional avoidance, or attempts at avoiding internal sensations (e.g., thought, feelings, memories) that may be distressing or worrisome. Generally, the book is well put together, is characterized by coherence, and has good flow of evidence and ideas. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved) | en |
