Foundations of Child Development, The

This is the first in a series of four books which form part of the Open University course Child Development. They provide a detailed and thorough undergraduate-level introduction to the central concepts, theories, current issues and research evidence in developmental psychology.
These books assume no previous knowledge of the field and encourage the reader's active involvement, especially through the use of activities. Examples drawn from case-studies, psychological research and practice stimulate critical appreciation of the issues covered. Selected short readings accompany the chapters to present ideas from a variety of sources.
The Foundations of Child Development is a broad and accessible introduction to theory and research, presenting integrated research-based accounts of development in key areas of early childhood, such as perceptual abilities, social relationships, individuality and object knowledge. A focus on modern developmental theories is complemented by detailed consideration of models of developmental processes. A theme that runs through the book is a concern with the ways in which biological, social and cultural influences interact in development.

"This text provides in-depth accounts of key areas of children's development... of it's type, the text is a credit to the Open University and particularly to its contributors." BPS Developmental Psychology Newsletter

1. Images of Childhood and Theories of Development: Prajna Das Gupta.
2. Evolution and Development: Ken Richardson.
3. Sensation to Perception: John Oates.
4. The Genesis of Thought: Dennis Bancroft.
5. Infant Individuality: Jim Stevenson and John Oates.
6. Interactions in Development: Ken Richardson.
7. First Relationships: John Oates.
Acknowledgments.
Name Index.
Subject Index.