A multidimensional approach to understanding the complexities of human behaviour and development across the lifespan

Each person is uniquely shaped throughout their life by many significant dimensions. Understanding Human Development introduces students to new ways of understanding these many dimensions and how they interact to influence human adaptation and coping across the lifespan.

Now in its third edition, this text is significantly revised to provide students with the core theoretical understandings of human development and behaviour. Each chapter introduces students to the ideas and research that will likely inform key debates, controversies and implications for practice. It aims to foster students thinking and their interest in a broad range of issues that have the potential to profoundly influence human behaviour and development.

NEW TO THIS EDITION

• Heavily revised content reflects recent developments in social work and human development
• New three-part structure allows for easy navigation of the text
• A unique section devoted to trauma and loss
• Renewed Practice in Context boxes written by social workers help students to place theory in real-world context
• Updated Apply your Understanding in each chapter encourages students to critically reflect on the ideas being introduced
• New Weblinks and references at the end of each chapter provide useful sources of research, and practice and policy materials.

Part 1: A Conceptual Overview

1. A Multidimensional Approach: An Overview of Inner and Outer Worlds

2. Development in Relational Contexts

3. Development in Broader Social Contexts

Part 2: Development and Adaptation across the Lifespan

4. Prenatal Period and Infancy

5. Early Childhood

6. Middle Childhood

7. Adolescence

8. Early Adulthood

9. Middle Adulthood

10. Late Adulthood

Part 3: Adaptation following Specific Life Events

11. Coping with Trauma

12. Coping with Loss

Louise Harms is Chair and Head of Social Work at Melbourne University.