Introducing Child Psychology

1. Edition August 2003
408 Pages, Hardcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Introducing Child Psychology is for all those who want to find out what psychology can tell us about the nature and development of children.
* A non-technical introduction for all those who want to find out what psychology can tell us about the nature and development of children.
* Presents the major topics of child development investigated by psychologists.
* Pays particular attention to the most recent research findings.
* Consistently relates psychological knowledge to practical situations, showing what psychology has to offer in real life situations involving children.
* Learning is supported by study boxes, summaries, definitions and suggestions for further reading.
List of Figures.
List of Tables.
About The Author.
Preface.
1. Finding Out About Children.
2. The Nature Of Childhood.
3. Beginning Life.
4. Forming Relationships.
5. Emotional Development.
6. The Child As Scientist: Piaget's Theory Of Cognitive
Development.
7. The Child As Apprentice: Vygotsky's Theory Of
Socio-Cognitive Development.
8. Children As Information Processors.
9. Using Language.
10. Towards Adulthood.
References.
Author Index.
Subject Index.
presents the core issues, ideas and evidence on the development of
children, and captures the excitement of recent research. It raises
the key questions that make the study of children so exciting, and
is always judicious in its weighing of the evidence to answer them.
A wonderful book - accessible, enjoyable, and wise
- to be recommended for students at all levels and for
teachers." Judy Dunn, Institute of Psychiatry, London
"This book provides an engaging, detailed and informative
introduction to child psychology. Whilst obviously scholarly, the
book is eminently accessible and readers should have no trouble in
appreciating the different approaches to child psychology or in
getting to grips with some of the more difficult concepts. The
author himself states that children are fascinating and important
and this is obvious throughout the text. Each chapter explores a
specific area allowing the reader to develop real insight into the
world of children. The judicious use of text boxes and insets helps
clarify specific issues and points. This comprehensive book should
prove to be indispensable to all readers who want to work with and
understand children." Bernie Carter, Professor of
Children's Nursing, University of Central Lancashire
"This is an excellent introduction to the methods, theories and
main concepts used by psychologists to describe our current
systematic understanding of children and their development from
conception to early adulthood. The treatment is comprehensive and
crystal clear reflecting the author's vast experience and authority
in the field. Schaffer's scientific rigour is matched with his
fascination with and delight in children which illuminate every
chapter. His measured conclusions will be invaluable to a wide
range of professionals who work with and promote our understanding
of children." Professor Charles Desforges, School of
Education, University of Exeter
"Schaffer has written an accessible book which succinctly
describes and evaluates concepts, perspectives, and research
findings in child psychology and relates them to matters of
practical importance in the care of children. It provides an
excellent introduction for students new to the subject and to those
embarking on university courses." Pamela Calder, Senior Lecturer
in Psychology, South Bank University
"The book assumes no previous knowledge, but at the same time is
rich and penetrating: its style is engaging, and research findings
are reported clearly ... as well as communicating the excitement of
the field as a whole ... The book is beautifully presented, and is
a pleasure to use ... Introducing Child Psychology is a book
to enjoy, and to recommend both to trainees and to experienced
psychologists." Peter Appleton, Clinical Psychology