Development Through Life: A Handbook for Clinicians

Development is probably the most important factor in determining the personality and mental state of a human being. Understanding the processes of development from a psychological point of view is not only of interest in itself, but is central to understanding the many psychiatric disturbances and illnesses which plague mankind. The aim of this book is to present facts, concepts and research issues about social, cognitive and emotional development throughout the life span which are of particular relevance to clinicians. The authors emphasize the different sorts of challenges and transitions, gains and losses throughout life and consider how individual development is influenced by the social context.