Using and Interpreting Statistics: A Practical Text for the Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences by Eric Corty

Introduction

Statistics can often feel like a foreign language—full of intimidating formulas and abstract concepts. Yet, for students in the behavioural, social, and health sciences, understanding statistical reasoning is essential for making sense of research, data, and real-world decisions. Eric Corty’s Using and Interpreting Statistics: A Practical Text for the Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences bridges that gap, offering a clear, step-by-step guide that speaks directly to learners. Whether you are a psychology undergraduate in Mumbai, a public health researcher in Delhi, or a social work student in Bengaluru, this hardcover volume provides the tools you need to collect, analyse, and interpret data with confidence.

Book Overview

This award-winning textbook is designed specifically for students who may be encountering statistical methods for the first time. Unlike dense, theory-heavy manuals, Corty’s approach is conversational and practical. Each concept is introduced through relatable examples drawn from everyday life—such as comparing exam scores, understanding survey responses, or evaluating health interventions. The book emphasizes interpretation over computation, helping readers focus on what statistics actually mean in context. With plenty of practice opportunities and a friendly tone, it transforms a potentially daunting subject into an accessible and even enjoyable learning experience.

Key Highlights

• Step-by-step guidance that breaks down complex statistical procedures into manageable parts.
• Real-world examples from behavioural, social, and health sciences, as well as familiar scenarios like sports, shopping, and social media.
• Interpretation-first approach that prioritises understanding results rather than just crunching numbers.
• Practice exercises at the end of each chapter to reinforce learning and build confidence.
• Accessible language that avoids unnecessary jargon, making the content suitable for non-mathematical readers.

Inside the Book

Organised into clear, logical chapters, the book covers foundational topics such as descriptive statistics, probability, hypothesis testing, correlation, regression, t-tests, ANOVA, and nonparametric methods. Each chapter includes worked examples, visual illustrations, and annotated output from statistical software. Corty also provides guidance on choosing the right statistical test, interpreting p-values and confidence intervals, and avoiding common pitfalls. Appendices offer handy reference tables and formulas, ensuring that students have everything they need in one place.

Key Topics

• Descriptive statistics: mean, median, mode, variance, and standard deviation
• Probability distributions and the normal curve
• Sampling distributions and the central limit theorem
• Hypothesis testing and statistical significance
• Effect sizes and confidence intervals
• Correlation and simple linear regression
• Independent and paired t-tests
• One-way and factorial ANOVA
• Chi-square tests and other nonparametric methods
• Choosing the appropriate statistical test

Reader Benefits

Students who use this book will gain a solid conceptual foundation in statistics without feeling overwhelmed. They will learn to critically evaluate research findings, design simple studies, and communicate results effectively. The emphasis on interpretation prepares readers for advanced coursework and real-world applications in fields such as psychology, sociology, education, nursing, public health, and social work. By the end of the book, readers will not only know how to run a statistical test but—more importantly—understand what the numbers are telling them.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the basic principles of statistical reasoning and data analysis.
• Calculate and interpret measures of central tendency and variability.
• Apply probability concepts to real-world situations.
• Conduct hypothesis tests and interpret p-values and confidence intervals.
• Use correlation and regression to examine relationships between variables.
• Compare groups using t-tests and ANOVA.
• Analyse categorical data with chi-square tests.
• Make informed decisions about which statistical method to use.

Who Should Read

This textbook is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students in the behavioural, social, and health sciences who are taking their first course in statistics. It is also a valuable resource for professionals who want to refresh their statistical knowledge or learn to interpret research more effectively. No prior background in mathematics beyond basic arithmetic is required—just a willingness to engage with data and think critically.

About the Author

Eric Corty is an award-winning teacher and professor of psychology at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College. With decades of experience teaching statistics to undergraduate students, he has developed a reputation for making complex material approachable and even enjoyable. His student-centred philosophy and clear, empathetic writing style shine through every chapter of this book.

About the Publisher

Worth Publishers is a leading academic publisher known for producing high-quality textbooks in psychology, sociology, and the life sciences. Their titles are widely adopted in universities worldwide, and they are committed to providing educational materials that promote deep understanding and critical thinking.

Conclusion

Statistics need not be a barrier to success in the social and health sciences. With Eric Corty’s Using and Interpreting Statistics, students gain a trusted companion that demystifies data and empowers them to think like researchers. Whether you are preparing for exams, conducting your own study, or simply trying to make sense of numbers in the news, this practical, engaging textbook is an investment in your academic and professional future. Order your hardcover copy today from Bookshops.in and take the first step toward statistical literacy.