The Psychology of Passion. A Dualistic Model

"Although people often talk about passion, it received very little empirical attention until Robert J. Vallerand turned his scientific eye to the topic. In this book, he uses motivational concepts to distinguish harmonious from obsessive passions, and he reviews extensive research showing both the bright and dark consequences of these passions. Vallerand's rigorous work on passions is accompanied by real-life examples that will have meaning for all readers, bringing to life this important area of psychology." EDWARD L.
DECI, Gowen Professor, University of Rochester, and author of Why We Do What We Do "In his highly original program of research, Professor Vallerand explores a fascinating, novel psychological construct, that of passion. It turns out that passion isn't reducible to a high degree of motivation, and that while in its obsessive manifestation it can override other concerns, it can also be harmoniously integrated with individuals' varied preoccupations.
This intriguing and well-supported work is a must-read for all those for whom motivation represents a quintessential psychological concept that drives all behavior." ARIE W. KRUGLANSKI, Distinguished University Professor, University of Maryland, College Park