This book gives an integrated approach to the development of two-to-six-year old children. During these early years a child acquires language, forms a distinct personality, and learns independence. The author investigates the ways in which development during this crucial period can evolve adaptively or go awry. From the perspective of the clinician or practitioner, this book combines theoretical and practical approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders appearing in preschool children. It covers a wide range of developmental issues, including personality and conduct disorders, learning disabilities, and affective problems, and provides guidelines for treatment. The book presents the most recent data interpreting the etiology of each disorder, and incorporates case histories. The text will be of benefit to child psychologists, counsellors, child psychiatrists and psychology students.

Table of Contents

The Developmental Perspective. Assessment. Clinical Syndromes. Specific Risk Factors During the Preschool Years. Management. References. Author Index. Subject Index.