Emotional Longevity: What REALLY Determines How Long You Live
Anderson, CEO of the American Psychological Association, believes in a new approach to health as a way to understand longevity. Instead of the traditional view of physical health, Anderson says the interaction of six "well-being" factors-biological, psychological, behavioral, economic, religious/spiritual and emotional-can explain the differences in longevity. He argues that there must be a scientific explanation for why some people recover from serious illness such as a heart attack while other patients remain disabled. According to Anderson, this multifaceted approach goes beyond the increasing acceptance of nontraditional medicine; it is an entirely new way to approach life, with specific medical support. Much of the book focuses on exploring the six factors and how they play out in everyday life. Anderson discusses his mother's battle with cancer and its impact on his life. He also profiles others-author Reynolds Price and journalist Linda Ellerbee-who have overcome illness or adversity and used these challenges to change their lives. Anderson's background as associate director of the National Institutes of Health for Behavioral and Social Sciences Research lends authority to the research support, and the work is more inclusive than many other popular psychology books on changing and improving one's life. Readers willing to take the time to understand Anderson's concepts will find the book worthwhile.Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.