Do you have an interest in human development? Or want to understand the lifespan of humans? If so, the latest edition of the text Looking Forward through the Lifespan: Developmental Psychology, by Candida Peterson, is an indispensable resource for students, psychologists, and educators. Peterson's book is a poignant account of human life and tells of the doings of humankind through the 21st century.
This book is an introduction to the field of developmental psychology and an excellent reference guide for even the most experienced among us. It provides an insightful and thorough coverage of the practical skills required to navigate a developmental framework. The reader is directed through each domain of development, experiencing theory in action with real-life examples, engaging illustrations, and practical case studies. The addition of neurocognition and a stronger focus on the cross-cultural implications and considerations of local Indigenous Australian/New Zealand experiences reflects an appreciation and sensitivity that was missed in previous editions. To enhance the reader's learning experience, the author thoughtfully incorporates ‘My Virtual Child’ — a personalised learning opportunity to critically think and apply the theory of each chapter; encouraging readers to put content into practice.
The preface poignantly muses, ‘the uniqueness of each human lifespan and the personal idiosyncrasies that make the study of lives in progress a fascinating enterprise’ (p. i). In this quote Peterson reflects a cheerful optimism and insight into the unique journey of human development across the lifespan, guiding the reader from infancy through to old age in a chronological chapter-by-chapter organisation, with each covering the latest standpoints in all domains of development. The comprehensive and systematic explanations and materials have gone above and beyond previous text editions, with an interrelationship between theory, research and applications through the efficient use of vibrant figures and boxes to highlight key points, all of which are compelling.
The only criticism is a lack of opportunity for self-assessment. Each chapter could include activities and questions that require deeper problem solving and higher-level thinking to assist readers in their comprehension and understanding of the text. This assessment could be provided alongside the supplementary materials for those who may choose to extend their knowledge in this way.
In conclusion, Looking Forward through the Lifespan: Developmental Psychology, in its sixth edition, deserves its place on the shelf next to the previous five — a resource of continuity and professionalism; and well crafted by Candida Peterson. It would be apt to leave the final words with the author, who eloquently reflects: ‘it is an exciting time to be writing about human development and lifelong psychological growth’ in a period where there have been ‘significant scientific breakthroughs that strengthen grounds of optimism’. The reviewer, and I’m sure others in the field of psychology, could not agree more.
