Contemporary Constructions of the Child: Essays in Honor of William Kessen

This volume contains critical state-of-the-art essays on significant aspects of children's development and developmental inquiry, examining infant perception, action, and social cognition, concept development, language, play, parent education, autism, and Tourettes Syndrome, pediatrics, and child development, and science, practice, and gender roles in early child psychology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1991, this comprehensive volume presents a collection of critical and cutting-edge essays on significant aspects of children's development and developmental inquiry. Spanning a wide range of topics, the book delves into essential areas such as infant perception, action, and social cognition; concept development and language acquisition; children's play and its significance; parent education and its role in child development; the challenges faced by children with autism and Tourette Syndrome; pediatrics and child development; and the interplay of science, practice, and gender roles in early child psychology.

A remarkable and cohesive theme emerges from the contributors' discussions, as they present their substantive ideas within the framework of their own remarkable intellectual biographies. While serving as a collective case study in the recent history of ideas, the contributors pay tribute to the profound intellectual and personal influence of William Kessen.

The book is organized into five distinct sections, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of children's development. The first section, titled "Infant Perception, Action, and Social Cognition," examines the early stages of a child's development, focusing on their perception of the world, their motor skills, and their social interactions. Contributors explore topics such as visual perception, language development, and the development of social cognition, highlighting the importance of early experiences in shaping a child's cognitive and social abilities.

The second section, titled "Concept Development and Language," delves into the complex processes of concept formation and language acquisition. Contributors discuss the role of language in shaping a child's understanding of the world, the development of symbolic thinking, and the acquisition of grammar and vocabulary. They explore the interplay between language and other cognitive processes, such as memory and attention, and discuss the challenges faced by children with language disorders.

The third section, titled "Children's Play," explores the vital role of play in a child's development. Contributors examine the different types of play and their significance in promoting cognitive, social, and emotional development. They discuss the importance of unstructured play, imaginative play, and social play in a child's overall growth and well-being. They also explore the role of parents and caregivers in fostering play and promoting healthy child development.

The fourth section, titled "Parent Education and Child Development," focuses on the importance of parent education in promoting child development. Contributors discuss the various strategies and techniques that parents can use to support their children's development, including promoting healthy eating habits, encouraging physical activity, and providing a supportive and nurturing environment. They also explore the challenges faced by parents in balancing work and family responsibilities and the role of community programs and resources in supporting parent education.

The fifth section, titled "Children with Autism and Tourette Syndrome," addresses the unique challenges faced by children with developmental disabilities. Contributors discuss the diagnostic process, the treatment options available, and the importance of early intervention and support. They also explore the social and emotional impact of these disabilities on children and their families and discuss the role of advocacy and awareness-raising in promoting inclusivity and understanding.

Throughout the book, the contributors honor the intellectual and personal influence of William Kessen, a renowned child psychologist and pioneer in the field of developmental psychology. They reflect on his contributions to the field, his innovative research, and his enduring legacy. The book serves as a tribute to Kessen's enduring impact on the study of children's development and developmental inquiry.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume offers a wealth of knowledge and insights into significant aspects of children's development and developmental inquiry. It provides a valuable resource for researchers, educators, policymakers, and parents interested in understanding and promoting children's healthy growth and well-being. The contributors' discussions, coupled with their impressive intellectual biographies, make this book a must-read for anyone seeking to advance their understanding of early childhood development.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032105468