"An important reference to students, researchers, and practitioners."—Booklist The definitive reference in child psychology and development The acclaimed Handbook of Child Psychology, Fifth Edition spans the entire field of child development. Since the First Edition reached the shelves more than six decades ago, the Handbook has been child psychology?s definitive sourcebook, encyclopedia, and research review guide. The four volumes comprising the Fifth Edition offer in-depth coverage of every social, emotional, perceptual, moral, cognitive, linguistic, and applied aspect of child psychology. Whether you are a practitioner in human development, psychology, sociology, anthropology, or cognitive sciences; or an educator, policymaker, parent, or student, the Handbook of Child Psychology, Fifth Edition is a must-have reference. Praise for the Fifth "Without a doubt, [the editors] have successfully carried on the tradition of summarizing what is the most important subfield of the behavioral sciences in an authoritative, comprehensive, and timely fashion. The series editor and volume editors have assembled the best individuals to write for the volumes. . . . For the future generations of developmentalists, these chapters will serve as a time capsule of sorts that accurately documents the status and nature of developmental and child psychology at the turn of the millennium."—Child Development Abstracts & Bibliography "Now in its fifth edition, this handbook should still be considered a standard reference work in the field of developmental psychology. It reflects previously established scholarly traditions of utilizing editors who are renowned in their areas of expertise. It has evolved into a useful tool for undergraduates, graduates, practitioners, and researchers, and provides authoritative coverage and in-depth analysis of both theoretical and practical topics."—American Reference Books Annual
One of the world’s leading scholars of human development, William Damon is Professor of Education at Stanford University and the Director of the Stanford Center on Adolescence. Prior to joining Stanford in 1997, he was University Professor and Director of the Center for the Study of Human Development at Brown University.
By focusing his work on the positive aspects of “growing up” rather than on the severe behavioral problems of adolescents, Damon has put himself on the forefront of the emerging positive psychology movement in the United States. Damon speaks regularly to public and academic audiences about contemporary trends in child development and has written widely about personal development and moral commitment at all ages of life.
His current research explores how people develop character and a sense of purpose in their work, family, and community relationships. He examines how young people can approach their careers with a focus on purpose, imagination, and high standards of excellence. Damon also has written widely about how to educate for ethical understanding. His work is used in professional training programs in the fields of journalism, law, and business.
Damon is the author of 17 books and numerous book chapters and articles on education and human development, especially character development. His work has been influential for research and theory in academic developmental psychology and in the broader society, especially around questions of childrearing and schooling. His 1995 book, Greater Expectations: Overcoming the Culture of Indulgence in Our Homes and Schools helped create a societal push to increase standards for achievement and service and was the recipient of the prestigious Parents’ Choice® award. Damon’s other books written for general audiences include The Moral Child, Some Do Care, The Youth Charter and Good Work. He is founding editor of the well-known series, New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development and editor in chief of the definitive Handbook of Child Psychology, fifth and sixth editions.
Damon’s research and insights have been regularly covered in national publications, including the Boston Globe, The Los Angeles Times, New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, USA Today, Washington Post. His many national talk show appearances include Oprah, Today, Primetime Live, Talk of the Nation, The Diane Rehm Show, and Morning Edition.
Among many national recognitions, Damon was recently elected to the National Academy of Education. He received his bachelor's degree from Harvard University and his Ph.D. in developmental psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. He lives in Northern California.