Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0126024006 ISBN 13: 9780126024005

Publisher: Academic Press, 2006

An integrative introduction to the theories and themes in research on creativity, this book is both a reference work and text for courses in this burgeoning area of research. The book begins with a discussion of the theories of creativity (Person, Product, Process, Place), the general question of whether creativity is influenced by nature or nurture, what research has indicated of the personality and style of creative individuals from a personality analysis standpoint, how social context affects creativity, and then coverage of issues like gender differences, whether creativity can be enhanced, if creativity is related to poor mental or physical health, etc.

The book contains boxes covering special interest items including one page biographies of famous creative individuals and activities for a group or individual to test and/or encourage creativity, as well as references to internet sites relating to creativity.

• Breaks down the major theories about creativity but doesn't restrict to a singular perspective
• Includes extensive citations of existing literature
• Textbook features included (i.e., key terms defined)

Book Description:

A much needed reference on creativity for psychologists

From the Back Cover:

Each of the major theoretical perspectives (behavioral, clinical, cognitive, developmental, economic, educational, evolutionary, historical, social, organizational) on creativity is reviewed in this volume. The more important key topics and issues, including those concerning age, sex, and cultural differences, and those dealing with the mad genius and health issues, are also covered. One chapter focuses on enhancement issues, and the last chapter defines creativity and explores how creativity is related to, but distinct from, other important human capacities and behaviors, including invention, innovation, imagination, and adaptability.

This is primarily a textbook. It may, however, also be useful to researchers and practitioners, given the emphasis on scholarly, scientific, and objective research and the theories that are constructed from it. All of the important scholarship on creativity is covered in this volume.