eBook downloads, eBook resources & eBook authors
'Understanding child psychology' is for students of child development and particularly those following courses leading to vocational qualifications in childcare and education.
Understanding Child Development introduces the main areas of developmental psychology in childhood. Drawing on content which first appeared in ‘Understanding Child Development’, published in 1986, the book includes new bases of evidence and offers an interdisciplinary approach to the subject. Following a thematic approach, this book draws together strands of knowledge from psychology, neuroscience, and medical, social and cognitive sciences. It covers both classic and contemporary theories and research, while also examining child development in real-world settings. Chapters explore conceptual issues, key developmental theories, and research methodology, while developing practical ways of making children’s lives better. These discussions are presented in a refreshing tone giving the reader an insight into the broad area of developmental psychology and its applications. Written in an engaging and accessible style, Understanding Child Development is essential reading for students on introductory courses in developmental psychology. It also offers valuable reading for those on related courses in education, health and social work.
This book is part of a 4 volume set that reflects current understanding of child psychology. Focusing on the concerns of a new century and now in its 6th edition the series is the definitive child psychologist's guide and reference work.
In the intricate tapestry of human existence, there exists a remarkable and awe-inspiring thread that weaves the fabric of society: our children. They are the embodiment of our hopes, the vessels of our dreams, and the carriers of our legacy. Understanding these young minds, nurturing their potential, and guiding them through the labyrinthine journey of childhood is a pursuit both profound and essential. Welcome to "Understanding Child Psychology for Better Upbringing." This book is an exploration into the captivating realm of child psychology, a field that delves into the heart and mind of our most precious beings—our children. It is a voyage through the wonder and complexity of child development, behavior, and well-being, guided by the beacon of research, knowledge, and practical wisdom. As parents, caregivers, educators, and concerned individuals, we are entrusted with the pivotal task of shaping the future by nurturing the present. In these pages, you will find a treasure trove of insights, strategies, and discoveries that will empower you to embark on this journey with confidence, compassion, and understanding. This book is a testament to the profound impact we can have on the lives of our children. It is a tribute to the resilience of young hearts and minds and the transformative power of informed parenting and caregiving. It is a reminder that every child is a universe waiting to be explored, understood, and cherished. Through the chapters that follow, we will traverse the landscapes of child psychology, from the theories that lay its foundation to the practical strategies that can shape brighter tomorrows. We will dive deep into the mysteries of cognitive, emotional, and social development, unraveling the secrets of childhood's inner workings. We will explore the role of attachment, parenting styles, and discipline in shaping the lives of our little ones. But this journey is not meant for experts alone. It is an odyssey for anyone who cares about the well-being of children—parents learning to navigate the uncharted waters of parenthood, caregivers striving to make a difference, educators shaping young minds, and professionals dedicated to the welfare of our youngest generation. This book is your compass, your guide, and your source of inspiration as you embark on the profound adventure of nurturing the future. Within these chapters, you will find not only knowledge but also practical examples that bridge the gap between theory and practice. You will encounter the wisdom of research findings, the experiences of real parents and professionals, and the stories of resilient children who have thrived against the odds. It is my hope that this book serves as a lantern in the dark, illuminating the path to better understanding and better upbringing. May it empower you to embrace the challenges of parenthood, celebrate the joys of caregiving, and champion the cause of every child's well-being. So, dear reader, as we set sail on this voyage through the fascinating world of child psychology, let us remember the words of the poet Khalil Gibran, "Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself." Together, let us embark on this journey of understanding, compassion, and growth—a journey that will undoubtedly shape not only the lives of our children but also the future of our world.
Part of the authoritative four-volume reference that spans the entire field of child development and has set the standard against which all other scholarly references are compared. Updated and revised to reflect the new developments in the field, the Handbook of Child Psychology, Sixth Edition contains new chapters on such topics as spirituality, social understanding, and non-verbal communication. Volume 1: Theoretical Models of Human Development, edited by Richard M. Lerner, Tufts University, explores a variety of theoretical approaches, including life-span/life-course theories, socio-culture theories, structural theories, object-relations theories, and diversity and development theories. New chapters cover phenomenology and ecological systems theory, positive youth development, and religious and spiritual development.
Part of the authoritative four-volume reference that spans the entire field of child development and has set the standard against which all other scholarly references are compared. Updated and revised to reflect the new developments in the field, the Handbook of Child Psychology, Sixth Edition contains new chapters on such topics as spirituality, social understanding, and non-verbal communication. Volume 4: Child Psychology in Practice, edited by K. Ann Renninger, Swarthmore College, and Irving E. Sigel, Educational Testing Service, covers child psychology in clinical and educational practice. New topics addressed include educational assessment and evaluation, character education, learning disabilities, mental retardation, media and popular culture, children's health and parenting.
Psychology as a Science. Child psychology is presented in a way that reflects its scientific underpinnings. A Contextualist Approach. In addition to discussing the effects of schools, families, and peers in separate chapters, the text considers such contextual factors for each relevant topic. This approach allows students to appreciate the forces that shape different aspects of development. Balanced Coverage of Theory and Research. The textbook offers a good balanced treatment of the theories and the research that have shaped developmental psychology. The consistent and balanced framing of issues and research in terms of the major theoretical positions in the field allow the reader to learn not only what was done, but why, and what the broader implications are for our understanding of development. Cultural Diversity. Vasta et al., has a strong emphasis on cultural diversity and the cultural context for development. This emphasis helps students appreciate that development occurs within a cultural context, and that this contextand also some aspects of developmentmay be different from what they are familiar with in their own culture. Strong Cognitive Coverage. Vasta et al., is widely regarded for its coverage of the cognitive aspects in child psychology. Chapter 9, Cognitive Development: The Sociocultural Approach provides further context on the social and cultural foundations of developmental processes. Readability. The clear and accessible writing style of Child Psychology enables the reader to appreciate and understand child psychology without sacrificing important information on the theories and research of the discipline. Strong Pedagogical Features. The pedagogy has been designed to compliment the writing style of the text and to assist in reader comprehension. Chapter opening vignettes, a running glossary, in-text summaries, end-of-chapter visual summaries and boxed material all assist in communicating and reinforcing the material
A major feature of human intelligence is that it allows us to contemplate mental life. Such an understanding is vital in enabling us to function effectively in social groups. This book examines the origins of this aspect of human intelligence. The five sections attempt firstly, to place human development within an evolutionary context, focusing on the possibility of innate components of understanding. The second aim of the book is to examine the roles of early perception, pretence and communication as precursor skills in the development of a grasp of mental states. Thirdly, attention is given to the possibility that children know a good deal more about the mind than is apparent from many studies designed to probe their abilities. Taken together, the chapters in this book mark a new focus within a 'theory of mind' movement, examining a group of skills in infancy and early childhood which culminate towards the end of the preschool period in a more mature understanding of one's and others' mental states. Drawing together researchers from diverse theoretical positions, the aim is to work towards a coherent and unified account of this fundamental human abiity. This book will be of central relevance to psychologists and those in related disciplines, particularly education and philosophy.
This book explains the physical, cognitive, language, and social development of infants and toddlers, pre-schoolers, school-age children, and adolescents.
