Understanding Childrens Development

Understanding Children′s Development remains the market leading developmental psychology book in the UK and has been widely acclaimed for its international coverage and rigorous research–based approach over its 25 year history. This dynamic text emphasizes the practical and applied implications of developmental research. It begins by introducing the ways in which psychologists study developmental processes, before going on to consider all major aspects of development from conception through to adolescence.

Building on these core strengths, this new sixth edition has been completely revised and updated to include increased coverage on ethics, particularly the issues associated with children′s rights. Developing research areas including the use of technology, children and media, and cultural differences, particularly in the developing world, are also incorporated into this forward thinking text.

Each chapter provides eloquent discussion of the material, enlivened by the inclusion of relevant case studies, real–world examples, ′Stop and Think′ boxes and ideas for classroom debate.

Online teaching and learning resources to accompany the text are available at www.wiley.com/college/smith

"This classic textbook provides an outstanding introduction to the field of developmental psychology. It is comprehensive in its coverage, and presents the latest developments in contemporary scholarship in a highly accessible format. It is a real pleasure to read. There is no better introductory level book on the market."
Martyn Barrett, University of Surrey, UK

"This book is a comprehensive, accessible and valuable addition to the field of psychology. It provides extensive insights into current research and contemporary issues in the area with both clarity and authority. The book is highly recommended to anyone engaged with the research and practice of child development."
Marilyn Hackney, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

"This is definitely one of my favourite developmental textbooks! It′s very comprehensive and covers all the topics I teach in my courses and more."
C. Philip Hwang, Gothenburg University, Sweden

Preface to Sixth Edition xxi

Acknowledgements xxv

PART I THEORIES AND METHODS 1

Chapter 1 Studying Development 3

Chapter 2 Biological and Cultural Theories of Development 31

PART II PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT AND BIRTH 77

Chapter 3 Prenatal Development and Birth 79

PART III T HE SOCIAL WORLD OF THE CHILD 105

Chapter 4 Parents and Families 107

Chapter 5 Siblings and the Peer Group 161

Chapter 6 Developing Emotional Intelligence and Social Awareness 199

Chapter 7 Play 233

Chapter 8 Children and Media 265

Chapter 9 Helping Others and Moral Development 297

Chapter 10 Social Dominance, Aggression and Bullying 339

PART IV CHILDREN S DEVELOPING MINDS 377

Chapter 11 Perception 379

Chapter 12 Language 405

Chapter 13 Cognition: Piaget s Theory 443

Chapter 14 Cognition: The Information Processing Approach 471

Chapter 15 Children s Understanding of Mind 513

Chapter 16 Learning in a Social Context 545

Chapter 17 Intelligence and Attainment 579

Chapter 18 Deprivation and Enrichment: Risk and Resilience 605

PART V ADOLESCENCE 643

Chapter 19 Adolescence 645

References (Visit the website to download the references – www.wiley.com/college/smith)