---

In this timely contribution to developmental psychology, Sommer argues that recent shifts in theory have occurred which require a greater emphasis on a more contextual understanding of child development. The author integrates research from history, anthropology and sociology as well as psychology to show how perceptions of children have changed.

---

A Childhood Psychology is a truly unique contribution to the field of childhood psychology. By interrogating the key questions lying at the heart of this rapidly changing field, it provides fresh and bold insights that are accompanied by original analysis and an interdisciplinary approach.

Packed with new developments and delivered with clarity, the book challenges our assumptions about childhood in modern society, scrutinizes contemporary trends in international research, and outlines controversial challenges to traditional paradigms. Sommer´s valuable insights into developmental and childhood psychology will be of particular interest to students and researchers of psychology, anthropology, cultural studies and sociology.

---

Introduction: Why and How a Childhood Psychology.- A Childhood Psychology A Paradigm Shift.- A Changing Young Childhood Beliefs Provoked and Theory Challenged.- Young Children´s Culture Acquisition Competencies and Learning.- Parenting I - Emergent Themes and Trends.- Parenting II Emergent Father Involvement?.- Early Emergence of the Self Socioaffective Competencies.- A Childhood Psychology Conclusions and Future Perspectives.

---

DION SOMMER is Professor of Developmental Psychology, Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, at the University of Aarhus, Denmark.

---