Book Review: Cyberpsychology - An Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction

Abstract

Contemporary developments in technology have changed our daily practices and located information and communication technologies in the center of our daily lives. Borders between the computer and human are somewhat blurred due to constant technological changes, which are hard to keep up with. Yet, interacting with computers is unavoidable for the 21 st -century individuals. The term human-computer interaction (HCI) is coined to address these conditions. Interacting with computers helps people in several ways, but also affects individuals' psychological states and behaviors. In this regard, new psychology of the modern age –i.e., cyberpsychology– becomes more important. Thus, it is crucial to understand the psychology of the HCI in such a technology centered world so that current perspectives and approaches regarding human performance can be improved better. Cyberpsychology can help to solve problems related to HCI and assist humans to develop their well-beings in the future. The book titled Cyberpsychology: An Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction is authored by Kent L. Norman and published in 2008 by Cambridge University Press, a highly prestigious publisher which has numerous publications across 100 countries. The book consists of 434 pages (+x) and shelters four parts each divided into four chapters. Each chapter begins with one or more intriguing scenarios and an overview of the chapter, which prepares the audience for further contents. Figures and illustrations are presented close to and in concordance with the related content, which ensures a high level of reader-friendliness. The author uses thought-provoking examples related to HCI. In the first parts' chapters, the author refers to forthcoming chapters for further exploration. Similarly, he refers to previous chapters in subsequent parts to address the fundamentals and prerequisites of the discussed issue. At the end of each chapter, at least two suggested exercises are presented to further thinking about real-life problems. On the other hand, further readings regarding the current topic could have been presented for thorough reading from first-hand sources.