As should be evident from reading this book, the psychology of creative writing is complex and multifaceted, and there are many different levels in which it may be investigated. We decided to focus on five levels in this book. There is much overlap, however, among these five levels, and an understanding of one level typically increases our understanding of one or more other levels. Therefore, we would argue that a more complete understanding of the psychology of creative writing could be gained by the investigation of each of the five levels and their interactions. What are these levels?

At one level, this book tries to further our understanding of the psychology of the creative writer. What are creative writers like? Are there characteristics that differentiate them from other types of writers? From professionals in other fields? At the second level is the actual text. How can an understanding of the printed word help elucidate the psychology of creative writing? The third level is about the process. What is the creative writing process? Are there certain processes that lead to more success in creative writing? At the fourth level is the development of creative writing as well as the development of the creative writer. How can creative writing be improved? How can the actual creative writing process help people cope with stress, traumatic events, or even mental illness? And finally, at the fifth level is the teaching of creative writing in schools and workshops. What are successful creative programs like?