Child Development and the Brain: From Embryo to Adolescence

This bestselling textbook provides social science students with an accessible introduction to neuroscience and the implications for our understandings of child development, considering the links between brain development and social and cultural issues. Now covering the 0-18+ age range, the new edition critically analyses the relationship between children and young people’s thoughts, behaviours and feelings and the ways in which their developing brains are structured. It includes a new section on emotional development in adolescence, considering the impact of drugs and alcohol on the brain and the role of brain changes in driving risky behaviours. Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, the text connects the latest scientific knowledge to the practice of understanding and working with children. Incorporating the latest research and debate throughout, the book offers students and practitioners working with children: • case studies showing how brain science is changing practice; • a companion website including self-test questions; • end-of-chapter summaries, further reading and questions to test knowledge; • a glossary of neuroscientific terms.

"This book shines a light at the neuroscience behind all the core aspects of Psychology that students need to know about. It helps students to make concrete connections with neuroscience using a unique approach." Kat Cartmell, University of Central Lancashire

Rob Abbott is a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood, as a counsellor and Registered Member of BACP (Snr accredited) and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. He teaches on a range of child development courses.

Dr Esther Burkitt is a Reader in Developmental Psychology and has Chartered Psychologist and Scientist status with the British Psychological Society and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She regularly publishes and teaches on the subject of children's emotional and communicative development.