American Pediatrics: The Social Dynamics of Professionalism, 1880-1980

Pediatrics as a medical specialty has evolved significantly over the past century, with the development of occupational structures and social processes. Professor Halpern's book "American Pediatrics" explores the origins and evolution of the field, highlighting the influence of societal change on the rise of new professions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Today, parents turn to pediatricians for comprehensive care for their sick children, seeking information on child development and guidance on managing various child-related issues. However, it's worth noting that just a century ago, specialized medical services for children were relatively scarce. Over the past century, physicians have diligently defined and established a dedicated field known as pediatrics, which has now become a permanent division of medical practice. In his insightful work, Professor Halpern delves into the historical development of American pediatrics, tracing its evolution over the past century. He identifies the social processes that have shaped this field, shedding light on how it has emerged and grown.

The author explores the intricate mechanisms that led to the specialization of pediatrics, examining how successive generations of specialists have redefined the field and established a series of occupational institutions. These institutions include professional societies, academic divisions, training programs, and certifying boards, all of which play crucial roles in shaping the profession.

American Pediatrics offers a unique and original approach to studying medical specialties and professions. By highlighting the interplay between specialties and societal change, the book provides a fresh perspective on professionalism. It demonstrates how specialties are not merely products of societal developments but also agents of change themselves. The book also sheds light on the multiple and interrelated forces that contribute to the rise of new professions, while documenting the influence of surrounding occupations on the shape specialties assume.

Through his comprehensive analysis, Professor Halpern enriches our understanding of American medicine and clarifies the origins of expert services for children and families. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates the University of California Press's commitment to seeking out and nurturing the brightest minds and providing them with a platform to express their ideas, reach a wider audience, and make a significant impact.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 210 x 148 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520357914