Theories of human development / by Barbara M. Newman and Philip R. Newman.

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

1. Introduction -- Part I: Theories that emphasize biological factors. 2. Evolutionary theory ; 3. Psychoanalytic theory ; 4. Cognitive developmental theory -- Part II: Theories that emphasize environmental factors. 5. Learning theories ; 6. Social role theory ; 7. Life course theory -- Part III: Theories that emphasize the interaction between the person and the environment. 8. Psychosocial theory ; 9. Cognitive social-historical theory ; 10. Bioecological theory ; 11. Dynamic systems theory ; 12. Epilogue.

"Key human development theories that continue to guide research and practice are examined in this engaging text. Ten key theories are grouped into three families - those that emphasize biological systems, environmental factors, and those that reflect an interaction between the two. This organization enhances students' ability to evaluate, compare, and contrast theories both within and across families. Each family is introduced with an overview of their unique perspectives and the rationale for grouping them together. Discussion of each theory includes the cultural/historical context during the theory's development, its key concepts and ideas, extensions of the theory in contemporary work, an example showing a modification of the theory, an application of how the theory is used to inform practice, and an analysis of how the theory answers 6 basic questions that a human development theory should address. Each chapter includes an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the theories to facilitate comparisons.? Theories that have a clear lifespan focus along with cases and examples that address issues across the lifespan are included."--Publisher's description.