Why Be Concerned With Self-Help Books?

Almost 1/2 Americans buy at least 1 self-help book in there lifetime.
In 2021, 41.81B was spent globally on Self-Help books.
Some Self-Help Books are totally wrong! For example, Venting anger is actually harmful rather than helpful.
While Self-Help Books can provide hope that change can occur, many suggest this change is easy when in fact is takes much work.

Self-Help Book?

* What are the credentials of the Author and where are the credentials from?
* What research does the author provide?
* Is there a Bibliography? How Extensive is it?
* Does it present solid specific problem-solving strategies based on scientific evidence and professional experience?
* How practical & useful is it?
* Does it contain "Psychobabble?"
* Is it Oversimplified?
* Is it misrepresenting part of the truth for the whole?
* Is the problem one is seeking help with changeable? Major Disorders not likely!
* Does it provide facts about the problem?
* Does it take into account individual differences?
* Does it suggest a single problem & single solution?
* Does it refer to authoritative sources like professional organizations?
* Does the book title reflect its contents?
* Is the purpose of the book spelled out in the preface or first chapter?
* Does it suggest continuous improvement rather than a "quick fix"?
* Does the Author totally attack mental health


References:

Arkowitz, H. & Lilienfeld, S. (2006). Do Self-Help Books Help? Scientific American Mind; Vol. 17 Issue 5, p78-79, 2p
Carpenter, C. (2008). Self-Help Books Get The 'Tough Love' Treatment. The Christian Science Monitor
Grand View Research (2020). Personal Development Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Instrument (Books, e-Platforms, Personal Coaching/Training), By Focus Area, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030.
Murray, B. (1999). Helping Students Discern Science From Snake Oil. APA Monitor Online,
Paul, Annie Murphy (2001) Self-Help: Shattering the Myths. Psychology Today Mar/Apr
Dean, J. (Jan. 2008) Is Modern Self-Help Just a Money Making Scam? PsychBlog Understanding the Mind Your Mind
http://www.spring.org.uk/2008/01/is-modern-self-help-just-massive-money.php
Santrock, J. (2006) Human Adjustment. McGraw Hill
Shermer, M. (May 2006). SHAM Scam. Scientific American; Vol. 294 Issue 5, p30-30, 1p, 1c
Sheremer, M. (Jun 2007) The (Other) Secret. Scientific American; Jun2007, Vol. 296 Issue 6, p39-39, 1p, 1c
Weiten, W. & Lloyd, M. (1994) Psychology Applied To Modern Life: Adjustment in the 90s. Thomson Learning.