Main description:

Human development is fascinating. This text uses a life-stage approach to present development across the life span, drawing on the psychosocial theory of Erik Erikson to provide a conceptual framework. The authors address physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth in 11 life stages, from the prenatal period through elderhood, focusing on the idea that development results from the interdependence of individuals and their environments at every stage, and placing special emphasis on how optimal development may be fostered throughout life. They also provide many cases that show you how research and theories can be applied to contemporary issues, the diversity of experiences that are possible at a certain period of life, and how people cope with challenges they face at various points in life.

Contents:

1. The Development Through Life Perspective.
2. Major Theories for Understanding Human Development.
3. Psychosocial Theory.
4. The Period of Pregnancy and Prenatal Development.
5. Infancy (First 24 Months).
6. Toddlerhood (Ages 2 and 3).
7. Early School Age (4 to 6 Years).
8. Middle Childhood (6 to 12 Years).
9. Early Adolescence (12 to 18 Years).
10. Later Adolescence (18 to 24 Years).
11. Early Adulthood (24 to 34 Years).
12. Middle Adulthood (34 to 60 Years).
13. Later Adulthood (60 to 75 Years).
14. Elderhood (75 Until Death).
15. Understanding Death, Dying, and Bereavement.
Appendix: The Research Process.