The Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations, edited by John M. Levine (University of Pittsburgh) and Michael A. Hogg (Claremont Graduate University), is a unique two-volume behavioral science reference work. Within this work, hundreds of entries are listed alphabetically and organized through a subject-oriented reader’s guide for ease of use. The entries are provided by authoritative experts and represent a wide variety of topics, such as “Reverse Discrimination,” “Dyads,” and “Terrorism.” The entries also include biographical entries discussing the theories and the important works of the theorist. Each entry contains a cross reference list, as well as a list of further readings.

It is difficult to make a comparison to other reference works because of the unique content of the Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations. When looking at other related reference resources, there are differences in the way each reference work views the group behavior. The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology and Behavioral Science (Wiley, 2001), edited by Craighead and Nemeroff, and Nadel’s Encyclopedia of Cognitive Science (Nature Publishing Group, 2003) are similar works, but focus more on psychology rather than group behavior. The Blackwell Encyclopedia of Social Psychology, edited by Manstead and Hewstone (Blackwell, 1999) is a resource that has similar concepts and search terms from the Encyclopedia of Group Relations and Intergroup Processes. Another similar resource is Clegg and Bailey’s International Encyclopedia of Organizational Studies (Sage, 2008) This reference work offers a historical perspective and discusses more of workplace organizational theory, which perhaps is most similar to the focus of the Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations. The true difference between the Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations and the other encyclopedias is the varied entries and the more holistic view of behavioral science that it provides. It utilizes terms from the social sciences that are pertinent to behavioral science, which produces a more well-rounded perspective of group behavior.

One of the strengths of this work is the distinctive nature of this reference source. It combines elements of many excellent reference works into a concise reference book. Entries in the Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations are easily accessible to all, from the beginning student to the experienced researcher, and clearly explain complex behavioral science concepts. A weakness of the book is that it might be difficult at first glance to know what topics the work contains. The work is most effective if utilized electronically through online reference collections. Through such an interface, this work would nicely complement social psychology and behavioral sciences reference collections. Whether paper format or electronic format, this encyclopedia is a welcome addition to any large reference collection. The Encyclopedia of Group Processes and Intergroup Relations is best suited for academic libraries and public libraries with large reference collections.