Introducing Cognitive Development

Interest in cognitive development has been resurgent in recent years as a result of continuing improvements in technology and the new methods of research these enable. Introducing Cognitive Development brings a new focus and clarity to this theoretically complex area. Using numerous illustrations and examples it describes the specific changes that occur in cognition from infancy and throughout childhood.

The reader is introduced to the topic with a review of traditional approaches to the study of cognitive development and a consideration of recent advances in the field, particularly in cognitive science. Key issues, including the relative contributions of nature and nurture, domain generality versus domain specificity and the child’s own role in his/her development are considered in relation to a range of topics such as:

• The development of representational abilities
• Theory of mind and social cognition
• Development of language.

This book provides an accessible introduction to cognitive development suitable for undergraduate students in psychology and related disciplines, as well as anyone involved in working with children.