Contemporary Issues in Child Psychology A Case Study Approach

Providing students with practical, modern insight, Contemporary Issues in Child Psychology: A Case Study Approach situates the study of child psychology within a modern context while simultaneously referencing traditional child development theory. Students explore a variety of thought-provoking case studies and develop an understanding of how to apply existing theory to modern situations, issues, and contexts.

The anthology is arranged topically in five parts, with readings in each part addressing an area of psychological concern for children and adolescents from both a traditional theoretical and contemporary context. The parts address cognitive development, social and emotional development, self and identity, social interactions, and health concerns, respectively. Each part begins with a case study that combines the concerns of the unit, along with guiding questions for both the case study and accompanying readings. Throughout, the material features a multicultural and intersectional focus to ground student learnings in contemporary practice.

Designed to provide students with a rich understanding of the emerging psychological and developmental transactions that are a hallmark of childhood and adolescence, Contemporary Issues in Child Psychology is an ideal resource for courses in developmental and child psychology.

Kelly A. Rodgers holds a M.A. and Ph.D. in educational psychology with a specialization in learning and development from the University of Missouri. She is an associate professor of psychology at Borough of Manhattan Community College, the City University of New York. Dr. Rodgers' areas of expertise include cultural diversity, child development and learning, and adolescence. Her research examines the motivational and socio-emotional aspects of the college experience for students of color and how this contributes to their retention in college in general and in STEM disciplines in particular.