Reversal Theory

First published in 1985. In the eight years since the publication of the first papers by Apter and Smith outlining the basic principles of the theory of psychological reversals, interest in the theory has grown rapidly. So within this book the emphasis is very much upon opening up fresh avenues and interests with a view to stimulating and guiding those psychologists who, whether as academics or as practitioners, are involved with reversal theory at any level. Some of the papers are based upon material presented at the International Symposium on Reversal Theory held under the sponsorship of the Welsh Branch of the British Psychological Society in September 1983, while others have been written specially for this book. The topics covered have been carefully selected to give a representative flavour of what reversal theory is currently about.

Edited by M.J. Apter Reader in Psychology, University College, Cardiff. D. Fontana Senior Lecturer in Education University College, Cardiff. S. Murgatroyd Senior Counsellor, The Open University in Wales.

Chapter 1 Introduction to Reversal Theory, S. Murgatroyd; Part 1 Research Evidence; Chapter 2 The Nature of Telic Dominance, S. Murgatroyd; Chapter 3 Psychophysiology and the Paradoxes of Felt Arousal, S. Svebak; Chapter 4 Telic Dominance, Stress and Moods, R. Martin; Part 2 Areas of Application; Chapter 5 Educating for Creativity, D. Fontana; Chapter 6 A New Perspective for Sports Psychology, J. Kerr; Chapter 7 Learning, Self-Actualization and Psychotherapy, P. P. van der Molen; Chapter 8 Reversal Theory as a Key to Understanding Religious Diversity, C. Hyers; Part 3 Theoretical Developments; Chapter 9 Strength of the Nervous System and Reversal Theory, M. Cowles, C. Davis; Chapter 10 A Reversal Theory of Social Relations Applied to Polite Language, L. Lachenicht; Chapter 11 Experiencing Personal Relationships, M. J. Apter, K. C. P. Smith; Chapter 12 Overview and Discussion, M. J. Apter, D. Fontana;