Buzz!: Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers, Daredevils, and Adrenaline Junkies

Description

Most of us crave new experiences and sensations. Whether it's our attraction to that new burger place or the latest gadget, newness tugs at us. But what about those who can't seem to get enough? They jump out of planes, climb skyscrapers, and will eat anything (even poisonous pufferfish) ... Prompting others to ask 'what's wrong' with them. These are high sensation-seekers and they crave intense experiences, despite physical, or social risk. They don't have a death wish, but seemingly a need for an adrenaline rush, no matter what. Buzz! describes the world of the high sensation-seeking personality in a way that we can all understand. It explores the lifestyle, psychology, and neuroscience behind adrenaline junkies and daredevils. This tendency, or compulsion, has a role in our culture. But where is the line between healthy and unhealthy thrill-seeking? The minds of these adventurers are explained page by page.

Kenneth Carter is a board certified clinical psychologist and the Charles Howard Candler Professor of Psychology at Oxford College of Emory University. Previously, he worked as a senior assistant research scientist in the prestigious Epidemic Intelligence Service of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where he researched smoking as a risk marker for suicidal behaviors in adolescents. He has had a longstanding interest in the psychology of thrill-seeking and has published extensively on the subject.

'Our team worked closely with Kenneth Carter on a science exhibition about the motivations of extreme sports athletes. He has an amazing ability to clearly communicate the psychology of sensation-seekers through personal stories that dispel myths and stereotypes. Discover your own sensation-seeking traits and come away inspired to pursue personal goals with enthusiasm and purpose!' Science North, Canada 'An engaging and informative romp through the fascinating world of thrill-seekers and risk-takers. Kenneth Carter does a skilful job of weaving scientific research with real-life examples, making the topic come alive for readers.' Scott O. Lilienfeld, Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor, Emory University, Atlanta 'Kenneth Carter brilliantly and seamlessly weaves together neuroscientific research with an extraordinary assortment of humorous, enlightening, and jaw-dropping anecdotes. He takes us on a fascinating journey; exploring the brain chemistry, cognitions, myriad behaviors, and relationships of thrill-seekers. Fasten your seatbelts - it's an amazing ride and a terrific book!' Lisa Ferentz, The Ferentz Institute and author of Treating Self-destructive Behaviors in Trauma Survivors: A Clinician's Guide 'Part of what makes Buzz! such an engaging read is that it brilliantly balances the extreme with the mundane, couching amazing acts of risk-taking with science that applies to all of us.' The San Francisco Book Review 'With writing that is accessible and approachable, Buzz! is an enjoyable overview of distinctive psychological personality traits and characteristics and an in-depth look at the motivation for risk-taking, flow, and HSS personalities.' Curt Davidson, Journal of Experiential Education