Theories of Human Development

by Barbara M. Newman, Philip R. Newman

This bestselling textbook provides an engaging introduction to 11 major theories about human development that continue to guide research, intervention, and practice. The theories are grouped into three families: those that emphasize biological systems, those that focus on environmental factors, and those that reflect the interaction between the two. This organization encourages readers to evaluate, compare, and contrast key theoretical ideas both within and across families. Pedagogical features foster critical thinking and an active approach to learning. Each family of theories is introduced with a brief overview of their unique perspectives and the rationale for grouping them together. Discussion of each theory includes the cultural/historical context within which the theory developed, key concepts and ideas, extensions of the theory in new directions, a research example, an illustration of how the theory is applied in contemporary practice, and an analysis of how the theory answers six basic questions that a theory of human development should address. Each chapter begins with a case example and related application. There is expanded visual material throughout to enhance and extend key concepts. The third edition also features: By focusing on theories that have had a major impact on development science, this book is ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in theories of development, lifespan, or child development, taught in the fields of psychology, human development, family studies, education, and social work.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

584 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a book specifically for placement of the theories but background on how the theories evolved.

One key point was that at the end of the chapters it gives an overview of the theory in addition to its strengths and weaknesses.

I marked it down a star because there were several times that a new theorist was introduced in the middle of a chapter but it was not made clear how much of a connection they had to say the original theorist. So Freud and Erikson for example, when Erikson is introduced you are wondering, "were they friends, contemporaries, etc?" Reading Erikson's chapter would help clear it up but it was near the end while Freud was near the beginning.

[Alexis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very worthwhile and relevant read. Needs quiet focus to get through it but I think is worth the time to do that kind of reading.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

assigned reading

[إحسان · Rating 5 out of 5]

أتعب أقول قد ايه حلو ومفيد وكان حجر أساس لأول مشروع بحثي في حياتي.

[Mike Hansen · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an okay course to take.
The name of the course shut be Theories of Children Development.
It was more about children's development.

[Kaitlyn Merker · Rating 3 out of 5]

assigned reading.