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Infants, Children, and Adolescents
Now published by SAGE!
A best-selling, chronologically organized child development text, Laura E. Berk’s Infants, Children, and Adolescents is relied on in classrooms worldwide for its clear, engaging writing style, exceptional multicultural and cross-cultural focus, first-rate coverage of developmental neuroscience, rich examples, and long-standing commitment to presenting the most up-to-date scholarship. Renowned professor, researcher, and author Laura E. Berk takes an integrated approach to presenting development in the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social domains, emphasizing the complex interchanges between heredity and environment and offering research-based, practical applications that students can relate to their personal and professional lives. The Ninth Edition’s extensive revision strengthens the connections among developmental domains and brings forth the most recent scholarship, representing the changing field of child development.
Included with this
LMS Cartridge: Import this title’s instructor resources into your school’s learning management system (LMS) and save time. Don’t use an LMS? You can still access all of the same online resources for this title via the password-protected Instructor Resource Site. Learn more.
A best-selling, chronologically organized child development text, Laura E. Berk’s Infants, Children, and Adolescents is relied on in classrooms worldwide for its clear, engaging writing style, exceptional multicultural and cross-cultural focus, first-rate coverage of developmental neuroscience, rich examples, and long-standing commitment to presenting the most up-to-date scholarship. Renowned professor, researcher, and author Laura E. Berk takes an integrated approach to presenting development in the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social domains, emphasizing the complex interchanges between heredity and environment and offering research-based, practical applications that students can relate to their personal and professional lives. The Ninth Edition’s extensive revision strengthens the connections among developmental domains and brings forth the most recent scholarship, representing the changing field of child development.
Included with this
LMS Cartridge: Import this title’s instructor resources into your school’s learning management system (LMS) and save time. Don’t use an LMS? You can still access all of the same online resources for this title via the password-protected Instructor Resource Site. Learn more.
4047 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1993
33 people are currently reading
645 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 13, 2016
A hetero-normative book that values maternal relationships a lot more than paternal, first and foremost blaming the mother for eventual behavioral problems in children. Doesn't address homosexual and non-hetero relationships, Berk just writes that heterosexual ones are the most common ones and therefore are the only ones worth mentioning. Doesn't address difficulties with gender and sexuality in children enough, not bringing up for example transgender children.
A Americentric book that only takes the perspective of an American middle-class family. A big lack of focus on other etnicities and cultures, with child-related problems/challenges faced in different countries.
+ The book means that the main goal for child upbringing is producing well-adjusted and well-behaviored citizens that fit right in to society's norms. That have OK self-esteem and confidence. Hm. I'd like to believe that there's more to life and upbringing than that...
I'm very dissappointed that I had to buy and read this book for my class in Developmental Psychology. It was OK in some aspects, like explaining the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky, but overall not a good book.
PS: I'm a Swedish student, and the "Swedish way of child upbringing" is somewhat different from the American way.
A Americentric book that only takes the perspective of an American middle-class family. A big lack of focus on other etnicities and cultures, with child-related problems/challenges faced in different countries.
+ The book means that the main goal for child upbringing is producing well-adjusted and well-behaviored citizens that fit right in to society's norms. That have OK self-esteem and confidence. Hm. I'd like to believe that there's more to life and upbringing than that...
I'm very dissappointed that I had to buy and read this book for my class in Developmental Psychology. It was OK in some aspects, like explaining the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky, but overall not a good book.
PS: I'm a Swedish student, and the "Swedish way of child upbringing" is somewhat different from the American way.
December 28, 2012
Read this in college for my Psych 11 class. Great insights and tips for raising a psychologically healthy child.
June 14, 2017
It could have been an excellent tool of teaching students about infants, early childhood through emerging adolescence. It seems to me as if Berk and Meyers tried to complicate their writing as much as possible integrating different stages of development with throwing in a fact or research statement in conjunction with introducing something new to the students. The fellow students in my class had to have each paragraph translated into a language they could understand. Too much research quoted without clear explanations. It's as if the authors did not write this book with the intention of teaching students but to show the rest of the academic world how "smart" they are in using academic language, invent some more and make it as complicated as possible for students to understand and come away with actually learning something. I came away with an A in the class but most of the students in the class struggled to get a low B and a C. Several withdrew because of the frustration of the book. In all the classes I've taken I've never seen students struggle thus much to learn. This book is for Fellow Professors if Berk and Meyers to read. I would never use this book if I was teaching this subject. I'm sure these women are very talented and good at writing something to be more complicated then it actually is. I recommend simplify their academic language and get rid of their "invented" words. Students should not need to use a dictionary to understand a textbook like this. Sad indeed to waste such possibility of really relay their knowledge. In relaying this I do acknowledge I loved reading about the conducted research and used the book as a reference book. I did however use other material to learn what I needed to learn in the class, and came away with a very strong A. However, a student should not have to search for other material to learn what they need to, the book requested for the class should suffice. In this case it did not. I would recommend using this book in conjunction with other material but not the main source of instruction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
- 2* = Biases towards the women’s issues relating to gender
- * = Unnecessary repetition
- * = Unnecessary repetition
April 20, 2025
Comprehensive and Scientific Summary of Laura Berk's Developmental Psychology
The book Developmental Psychology by Laura E. Berk is a prominent and authoritative resource in the field of developmental psychology, offering a systematic and scientific exploration of human development from conception to the end of life. With an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach, the book analyzes the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors in shaping human developmental trajectories. Organized into two volumes, the first volume covers development from conception through childhood, while the second addresses adolescence, adulthood, and old age. This summary, with an emphasis on scientific rigor and practical applications, outlines the book’s content and its significance for students, researchers, and psychology professors
Volume 1: Development from Conception to Childhood
Theoretical Framework and Foundational Concepts
The first volume begins by introducing foundational theories of developmental psychology. Berk examines both classical and contemporary theories, including Jean Piaget’s stages of cognitive development, Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory, and Lev Vygotsky’s sociocultural perspective, with detailed analysis. Supported by empirical evidence, she explores how cognitive, emotional, and social capacities evolve within the context of biological and environmental factors. For instance, Piaget’s theory of cognitive stages (sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational) is substantiated by longitudinal and cross-sectional studies demonstrating qualitative shifts in children’s thinking
Physical and Cognitive Development
Berk addresses physical development from the prenatal period through childhood, focusing on developmental milestones such as brain growth, motor skills, and sensory-motor coordination. She highlights the roles of nutrition, genetics, and environment (e.g., parent-child interactions) in physical development. In the realm of cognitive development, Berk explores topics such as language acquisition, memory, attention, and problem-solving. Drawing on contemporary research, she demonstrates how pretend play and social interactions foster cognitive skills and creativity in children
Social and Emotional Development
In the domain of social and emotional development, Berk emphasizes the significance of attachment, based on John Bowlby’s theory, and the impact of parenting styles (e.g., authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) on children’s self-esteem and self-efficacy. She also examines the influence of culture and social norms on the development of identity and social behaviors. For example, Berk illustrates how cultural differences in parenting practices can shape children’s independence or interdependence
Volume 2: Development from Adolescence to Old Age
Adolescence: Identity Crisis and Developmental Transitions
The second volume begins with adolescence, focusing on physical (e.g., puberty), cognitive, and emotional changes during this period. Drawing on Erikson’s theory, Berk identifies the identity versus role confusion crisis as the central challenge of adolescence. She also discusses moral development, referencing Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory, and emotional changes driven by hormonal and social factors (e.g., peer relationships). Berk underscores the role of social support and educational environments in facilitating a successful transition to adulthood.
Adulthood: Relationships, Career, and Purpose
In the adulthood section, Berk addresses topics such as forming intimate relationships, career decision-making, and achieving work-life balance. Using contemporary theories, she illustrates how interpersonal relationships and social support contribute to mental health and life satisfaction. Berk also introduces the concept of post-traumatic growth, where individuals achieve greater self-awareness and purpose after facing life challenges.
Old Age: Challenges and Opportunities
In the section on old age, Berk examines declines in physical and cognitive functions (e.g., memory and processing speed) while highlighting the potential for emotional growth and wisdom. Supported by longitudinal studies, she demonstrates that social engagement, lifelong learning, and family support can enhance quality of life in old age. Berk also refers to theories of successful aging, which emphasize the importance of maintaining independence and meaning in life.
Scientific and Educational Features of the Book
Evidence-Based Approach
One of the book’s primary strengths is its extensive use of credible and up-to-date research. Each chapter is grounded in longitudinal, cross-sectional, and experimental studies, providing robust evidence to support the concepts discussed. This approach makes the book a reliable resource for researchers and academics.
Educational Structure
Written in clear and structured prose, the book is designed to facilitate learning. Each chapter includes summaries, key terms, reflective questions, and practical activities, promoting active engagement with the material. Berk enhances theoretical concepts with real-world examples and case studies, making them relevant to everyday life.
Attention to Cultural and Social Factors
Berk adopts a holistic perspective by emphasizing the role of culture, gender, and socioeconomic contexts in development. She illustrates how cultural values and norms shape developmental pathways, which is critical for understanding human diversity in multicultural societies.
Academic and Practical Applications
Laura Berk’s Developmental Psychology is an essential resource for undergraduate and graduate psychology students, professors, and candidates preparing for advanced academic examinations. Beyond its academic utility, the book offers practical strategies for improving personal and professional life. For instance, Berk provides evidence-based recommendations for stress management, fostering self-awareness, and building healthy relationships, which are valuable for clinical psychologists and counselors
Conclusion
Laura Berk’s Developmental Psychology is a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous resource, highly recommended for both academic instruction and personal development. By integrating theory, research, and practical applications, the book equips readers with a deep understanding of the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in human development. For psychology professors, it serves as a valuable tool for designing courses and guiding developmental research, while for students and professionals, it is an inspiring resource for personal and professional growth
The book Developmental Psychology by Laura E. Berk is a prominent and authoritative resource in the field of developmental psychology, offering a systematic and scientific exploration of human development from conception to the end of life. With an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach, the book analyzes the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors in shaping human developmental trajectories. Organized into two volumes, the first volume covers development from conception through childhood, while the second addresses adolescence, adulthood, and old age. This summary, with an emphasis on scientific rigor and practical applications, outlines the book’s content and its significance for students, researchers, and psychology professors
Volume 1: Development from Conception to Childhood
Theoretical Framework and Foundational Concepts
The first volume begins by introducing foundational theories of developmental psychology. Berk examines both classical and contemporary theories, including Jean Piaget’s stages of cognitive development, Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory, and Lev Vygotsky’s sociocultural perspective, with detailed analysis. Supported by empirical evidence, she explores how cognitive, emotional, and social capacities evolve within the context of biological and environmental factors. For instance, Piaget’s theory of cognitive stages (sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational) is substantiated by longitudinal and cross-sectional studies demonstrating qualitative shifts in children’s thinking
Physical and Cognitive Development
Berk addresses physical development from the prenatal period through childhood, focusing on developmental milestones such as brain growth, motor skills, and sensory-motor coordination. She highlights the roles of nutrition, genetics, and environment (e.g., parent-child interactions) in physical development. In the realm of cognitive development, Berk explores topics such as language acquisition, memory, attention, and problem-solving. Drawing on contemporary research, she demonstrates how pretend play and social interactions foster cognitive skills and creativity in children
Social and Emotional Development
In the domain of social and emotional development, Berk emphasizes the significance of attachment, based on John Bowlby’s theory, and the impact of parenting styles (e.g., authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) on children’s self-esteem and self-efficacy. She also examines the influence of culture and social norms on the development of identity and social behaviors. For example, Berk illustrates how cultural differences in parenting practices can shape children’s independence or interdependence
Volume 2: Development from Adolescence to Old Age
Adolescence: Identity Crisis and Developmental Transitions
The second volume begins with adolescence, focusing on physical (e.g., puberty), cognitive, and emotional changes during this period. Drawing on Erikson’s theory, Berk identifies the identity versus role confusion crisis as the central challenge of adolescence. She also discusses moral development, referencing Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory, and emotional changes driven by hormonal and social factors (e.g., peer relationships). Berk underscores the role of social support and educational environments in facilitating a successful transition to adulthood.
Adulthood: Relationships, Career, and Purpose
In the adulthood section, Berk addresses topics such as forming intimate relationships, career decision-making, and achieving work-life balance. Using contemporary theories, she illustrates how interpersonal relationships and social support contribute to mental health and life satisfaction. Berk also introduces the concept of post-traumatic growth, where individuals achieve greater self-awareness and purpose after facing life challenges.
Old Age: Challenges and Opportunities
In the section on old age, Berk examines declines in physical and cognitive functions (e.g., memory and processing speed) while highlighting the potential for emotional growth and wisdom. Supported by longitudinal studies, she demonstrates that social engagement, lifelong learning, and family support can enhance quality of life in old age. Berk also refers to theories of successful aging, which emphasize the importance of maintaining independence and meaning in life.
Scientific and Educational Features of the Book
Evidence-Based Approach
One of the book’s primary strengths is its extensive use of credible and up-to-date research. Each chapter is grounded in longitudinal, cross-sectional, and experimental studies, providing robust evidence to support the concepts discussed. This approach makes the book a reliable resource for researchers and academics.
Educational Structure
Written in clear and structured prose, the book is designed to facilitate learning. Each chapter includes summaries, key terms, reflective questions, and practical activities, promoting active engagement with the material. Berk enhances theoretical concepts with real-world examples and case studies, making them relevant to everyday life.
Attention to Cultural and Social Factors
Berk adopts a holistic perspective by emphasizing the role of culture, gender, and socioeconomic contexts in development. She illustrates how cultural values and norms shape developmental pathways, which is critical for understanding human diversity in multicultural societies.
Academic and Practical Applications
Laura Berk’s Developmental Psychology is an essential resource for undergraduate and graduate psychology students, professors, and candidates preparing for advanced academic examinations. Beyond its academic utility, the book offers practical strategies for improving personal and professional life. For instance, Berk provides evidence-based recommendations for stress management, fostering self-awareness, and building healthy relationships, which are valuable for clinical psychologists and counselors
Conclusion
Laura Berk’s Developmental Psychology is a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous resource, highly recommended for both academic instruction and personal development. By integrating theory, research, and practical applications, the book equips readers with a deep understanding of the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in human development. For psychology professors, it serves as a valuable tool for designing courses and guiding developmental research, while for students and professionals, it is an inspiring resource for personal and professional growth
January 16, 2009
My text for class!
June 26, 2009
We used it for a class this summer. Pretty dense, flew through it in 2 weeks.
January 7, 2012
A great book for learning about childhood development!
November 19, 2022
Not a particularly good textbook. Would recommend you look for another, better textbook if you are interested in the subject.
Good textbooks are structured in a way that provides the reader both clear one-sentence definitions of whatever it is that is being discussed, AND a detailed explanation of it, with examples and studies. But this book often fails to articulate the ideas in a direct manner, and to distinguish between opinion, fact, and theory. That is not to say the authors did not distinguish these things in their heads (it seems like they did), but the book is not clear enough in that regard.
The attempt to make the book interesting by incorporating "a story" of a few kids' develpment failed miserably. There was no story or actual characters, just a few names that were used instead of mentioning "a kid aged x." Better to just leave it out completely (it is a textbook after all), or make an actual effort to create characters that the readers would be interested in.
Another thing that had no place in a Psychology textbook, in my opinion, is prescriptive suggestions regarding social policy that are ostensibly based on the science presented in the book.
Good textbooks are structured in a way that provides the reader both clear one-sentence definitions of whatever it is that is being discussed, AND a detailed explanation of it, with examples and studies. But this book often fails to articulate the ideas in a direct manner, and to distinguish between opinion, fact, and theory. That is not to say the authors did not distinguish these things in their heads (it seems like they did), but the book is not clear enough in that regard.
The attempt to make the book interesting by incorporating "a story" of a few kids' develpment failed miserably. There was no story or actual characters, just a few names that were used instead of mentioning "a kid aged x." Better to just leave it out completely (it is a textbook after all), or make an actual effort to create characters that the readers would be interested in.
Another thing that had no place in a Psychology textbook, in my opinion, is prescriptive suggestions regarding social policy that are ostensibly based on the science presented in the book.
July 5, 2017
It's informative in some respects but I question a majority of the studies done in this book. They seem to suggest that children need to reach developmental milestones like tying their shoes by age 6 or choosing a major soon after starting college or they are impulsive / have mental health problems. The studies seem to be backwards - reflecting Laura E. Berk's child development ideas from 30 years ago or Adena B. Meyer's mental illness over diagnosis of preschoolers in Head Start. All in all, I think this book is a good jumping off point for someone who wants to research child development more but many of the ideas should not be taken so seriously as they serve to fit Berk and Meyer's idea of how child development should be, rather than how it really is. Also, a lot of the book does not prepare you for the test in any respect. I tried to make an outline of the stuff in the book but it seemed to be full of mundane facts. The tests reflect hypothetical situations that are no way addressed by the book.
May 12, 2018
This textbook focuses on the development of children to adolescents. It briefly discusses the beginning of adulthood as well. I really like how much detail is in this text. There is also a nice balance of pictures and graphics to accompany the text. There are great outlines after each chapter and unit which helps to see the highlights of the steps of development.
November 21, 2016
Read for a 300-level Child and Adolescent development class back in 2012. I really enjoyed that class.
February 14, 2019
Read this book in 2004
May 11, 2019
Lots of good information on the development of the human brain and how that affects a child's ability to learn.
August 10, 2021
9th edition, which is not on the site. This is an excellent book that every parent should read all the way through, as well as teachers and caregivers in general.
April 4, 2024
9th Ed.
Thorough
Thorough
April 29, 2025
heteronormative as hell
Read
May 19, 2011Yawn..
May 30, 2013
it is a good text book, it explains things very clearly and covers them in an organized manner.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews