This casebook offers fifteen lively cases that illustrate a wide range of specific DSM-IV diagnoses covered in the abnormal psychology course. These cases integrate issues of racial and gender diversity and provide insight into the lives of people suffering from a variety of psychological disorders, highlighting how psychological distress is experienced and treated in real life.

Each case follows a similar pattern to aid students' comprehension. An Introduction describes the problems in the person's life, or the catalyst bringing him or her into therapy. A Psychosocial History offers childhood and other relevant background data to provide a context for the disorder. The Conceptualization section offers the rationale for the diagnosis and the Treatment section then outlines the appropriate psychotherapy as well as any other treatments such as medication or group therapy. The Discussion section highlights interesting aspects of the case, presents relevant research, and examines various theoretical perspectives on treatment. Finally, the Prognosis section covers reasonable expectations of what the future might hold for this person. Critical Thinking Questions are posed at the end of each chapter.

Gender and cultural diversity are highlighted among both clients and psychotherapists with important cultural issues woven throughout the cases. The cases themselves feature people from a variety of backgrounds and heritages. The impact of sociocultural factors on the experience or prevalence of a disorder is often discussed, as well as how treatment is affected when the client and therapist come from different ethnic backgrounds. Treatment outcomes are diverse and realistic and span from short to long-term. Most are designed as “ideal” interventions, but some are influenced by economic concerns and changing models of available services.