Child development

How does a tiny baby transform into a complex, multifaceted personality? What are the differences in perception of the world between a child and an adult? How does the early childhood experiences influence a person's professional success? What determines the common developmental features and what makes us unique in terms of physical, mental, and behavioral traits? Why do some people in adulthood retain reactions to the external world formed in childhood, while others significantly change their behavior patterns? How do cultural changes in society - such as mothers' mass employment, the presence of preschool educational institutions, and new technologies - affect children? These and many other questions are answered by the fascinating and dynamic science of child development, in which new discoveries are constantly being made. The knowledge gained has important practical significance and allows society to improve the lives of the younger generation. For example, educators need to be informed about what and how to teach their students of different ages, pediatricians require information about the physical development of young patients, psychologists use information about a child's personality to address behavioral problems. And parents are always interested in experiences and parenting practices that contribute to the well-being of children. The textbook is written by Laura Berk - a distinguished professor of psychology, who has been teaching child development science at various universities for over 30 years. The author has fully succeeded in creating a book that will make readers think, will be distinguished by the depth and breadth of coverage of the issues discussed, will vividly illustrate the complexities of child development, and will connect theory with everyday life. 9th edition.