Life History and Child Development

The biological life history (LH) theory has been increasingly utilized in psychology, especially in developmental psychology. However, there has not been a comprehensive text on the topic that also addresses applications in psychology. The present Element fills this void. Organized into three sections, it initially delineates and explains the species-general concepts and principles forming LH theory, emphasizing that, although derived from observations between species, they can be used to explain individual differences within human populations. Grounded in the assumption of phenotypic plasticity, subsequent LH research conducted in psychology covers a wide range of cognitive and social behavioral domains. This body of LH research is discussed next. The Element concludes by presenting four broad recommendations, which, comprising one quarter of the total content, provide specific directions for future LH research in psychology.

List of contents

1. Introduction; 2. Species-general frameworks of LH evolution and development; 3. Human LH research in developmental psychology; 4. Future directions for human LH research in psychology; 5. Conclusion; References.

Product details

• Authors: Chang Lei, Hui Jing Lu
• Publisher: Cambridge Academic
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Release: 31.07.2025
• EAN: 9781009078658
• ISBN: 978-1-009-07865-8
• Illustrations: Worked examples or Exercises
• Series: Elements in Child Development
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Psychology > Applied psychology; Non-fiction book > Psychology, esoterics, spirituality, anthroposophy > Psychology: general, reference works; PSYCHOLOGY / Developmental / General, Child & developmental psychology, Child, developmental and lifespan psychology, Cognition and cognitive psychology, Parenting: advice and issues, Sociology: family and relationships, Early childhood care and education, Research methods: general