This bestselling textbook provides social science students with an accessible introduction to neuroscience and the implications for our understandings of child development, considering the links between brain development and social and cultural issues.

Now covering the 0-18+ age range, the new edition critically analyses the relationship between children and young people’s thoughts, behaviours and feelings and the ways in which their developing brains are structured. It includes a new section on emotional development in adolescence, considering the impact of drugs and alcohol on the brain and the role of brain changes in driving risky behaviours.

Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, the text connects the latest scientific knowledge to the practice of understanding and working with children. Incorporating the latest research and debate throughout, the book offers students and practitioners working with children:

• case studies showing how brain science is changing practice;

• a companion website including self-test questions;

• end-of-chapter summaries, further reading and questions to test knowledge;

• a glossary of neuroscientific terms.

Rob Abbott is a a lecturer, counsellor and supervisor, and a senior accredited Member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists. He is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Esther Burkitt is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Chichester, and has Chartered Psychologist and Chartered Scientist status with the British Psychological Society. She is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.