Social and Personality Development in Childhood
Synopsis
Social and Personality Development in Childhood is a comprehensive and timely guide designed to bridge the gap between developmental psychology and legal practice. Developed in collaboration with the Ferenc Mádl Institute of Comparative Law and the Association for Children's Rights, this volume equips legal professionals, educators, and social workers with a profound understanding of the complex milestones involved in children's social and personality development.
At the core of this book is the bio-psycho-social approach, a holistic framework emphasizing that a child's journey to adulthood is shaped by deeply interconnected biological, psychological, and social factors. By translating complex psychological theories into actionable knowledge, the book empowers professionals to make informed, child-centered decisions that truly serve the "best interests of the child," as guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
To provide a structured and highly accessible reading experience, the volume is divided into three distinct sections:
- Children in the 21st Century: Explores the modern societal, digital, and cultural contexts impacting children today, providing a critical overview of current youth mental health challenges and psychological well-being.
- Social and Emotional Considerations in Personality Development: Offers a deep dive into the major stages of emotional and cognitive growth, detailing the profound impacts of developmental trauma, the protective power of resilience, and the intricacies of the psychological assessment process.
- Future Perspectives: Provides a forward-looking analysis of modern parenting dynamics and advocates for the vital implementation of trauma-informed educational and childcare systems.
More than just a theoretical textbook, this work serves as an essential practical tool for effective advocacy and intervention. It champions the fundamental belief that integrating psychological insight into legal and social frameworks is essential—because a society's commitment to the holistic health and well-being of its children remains its most secure strategic investment in the future.
Chapters
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Introduction – Towards an Interdisciplinary Understanding of Childhood
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Children in the 21st Century: A Brief Overview of Children’s Mental Health Issues and Psychological Well-Being in Contemporary Society
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Understanding the Psychological Report of a Child: What Happens During the Psychological Assessment Process?
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Developmental Theories: The Role of Genetic and Environmental Influences in Childhood, Classic and Modern Developmental Theories
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Main Areas of Human Development I: Emotional, Cognitive, and Social Growth From Birth to Late Adolescence
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Prenatal Period and Infancy: Psychological Insights Into the Beginning of Life
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Toddlerhood and Preschool Age: The Dynamics of Early Childhood Development
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Main Developmental Changes During Middle Childhood: The Role of Peers and School
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Psychosocial Milestones in Adolescence: Key Developmental Tasks
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Developmental Trauma: The Effects and Signs of Traumatic Events on Children, and Its Implications
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A Brief Overview of the Relevant Findings From Positive Psychology on Childhood Development: The Concept of Protective Factors and Resilience in Childhood
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Trauma-Conscious Childcare Institutions and Education System: How Can We Create a System for Both Childcare and Education That Recognises and Handles Developmental Trauma?
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What Can We Do for the Parents? How Can a Society Help Future Parents Support and Care for Their Children in the Best Possible Way?
