This third edition of Eric Rayner's classic text on the crucial phases of human development has been completely updated to take into account recent research findings. The text also reflects developments in society and fuller consideration is now given to sexual partnering, divorce and single parent families. Human Development describes and theorises about life situations from before birth to death. The book is an invitation to self-exploration as well as being a source of information. Theoretical discussion is illustrated by case descriptions to enable the reader to understand important and widely used psychoanalytic and psychological concepts. No 'set answers' are provided; instead the book is an invitation to argument. An invaluable introductory text, Human Development also provides detailed notes and references to guide the reader to further study.
A new edition of a classic text
This new edition of Human Development has been thoroughly revised and updated to incorporate recent developments in the field. New material is introduced on the development of a sense of self, the social self and moral development.
Beginning with a discussion of birth and childhood, the reader is lead through each of the crucial stages in human development. The authors reveal the intricate interplay between physical, emotional and psychological factors that contribute to the individual patterns of development that make each of us unique. All of the major milestones of life are covered, including adolescence, work, parenthood and old age. Employing psychoanalytic theories of development, this book reveals the richness that these ideas bring to well-known everyday phenomena.
This highly accessible and jargon-free introduction to human development combines scientific objectivity with a sensitive and sympathetic approach to the subject. It will prove invaluable to anyone involved in the helping professions.