Play and Exploration in Children and Animals

Nonfiction, Health & Well Being, Psychology, Developmental Psychology
Cover of the book Play and Exploration in Children and Animals by Thomas G. Power, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Thomas G. Power ISBN: 9781135690564
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: November 1, 1999
Imprint: Psychology Press Language: English
Author: Thomas G. Power
ISBN: 9781135690564
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: November 1, 1999
Imprint: Psychology Press
Language: English

Play is a paradox. Why would the young of so many species--the very animals at greatest risk for injury and predation--devote so much time and energy to an activity that by definition has no immediate purpose? This question has long puzzled students of animal behavior, and has been the focus of considerable empirical investigation and debate.

In this first comprehensive and state-of-the-art review of what we have learned from decades of research on exploration and play in children and animals, Power examines the paradox from all angles.

Covering solitary activity as well as play with peers, siblings, and parents, he considers the nature, development, and functions of play, as well as the gender differences in early play patterns. A major purpose is to explore the relevance of the animal literature for understanding human behavior. The nature and amount of children's play varies significantly across cultures, so the author makes cross-cultural comparisons wherever possible.

The scope is broad and the range multidisciplinary. He draws on studies by developmental researchers in psychology and other fields, ethologists, anthropologists, sociologists, sociolinguists, early childhood educators, and pediatricians. And he places research on play in the context of research on such related phenomena as prosocial behavior and aggression.

Finally, Power points out directions for further inquiry and implications for those who work with young children and their parents. Researchers and students will find Play and Exploration in Children and Animals an invaluable summary of controversies, methods, and findings; practitioners and educators will find it an invaluable compendium of information relevant to their efforts to enrich play experiences.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Play is a paradox. Why would the young of so many species--the very animals at greatest risk for injury and predation--devote so much time and energy to an activity that by definition has no immediate purpose? This question has long puzzled students of animal behavior, and has been the focus of considerable empirical investigation and debate.

In this first comprehensive and state-of-the-art review of what we have learned from decades of research on exploration and play in children and animals, Power examines the paradox from all angles.

Covering solitary activity as well as play with peers, siblings, and parents, he considers the nature, development, and functions of play, as well as the gender differences in early play patterns. A major purpose is to explore the relevance of the animal literature for understanding human behavior. The nature and amount of children's play varies significantly across cultures, so the author makes cross-cultural comparisons wherever possible.

The scope is broad and the range multidisciplinary. He draws on studies by developmental researchers in psychology and other fields, ethologists, anthropologists, sociologists, sociolinguists, early childhood educators, and pediatricians. And he places research on play in the context of research on such related phenomena as prosocial behavior and aggression.

Finally, Power points out directions for further inquiry and implications for those who work with young children and their parents. Researchers and students will find Play and Exploration in Children and Animals an invaluable summary of controversies, methods, and findings; practitioners and educators will find it an invaluable compendium of information relevant to their efforts to enrich play experiences.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book Practical Predestinarians in England, c. 1590–1640 by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Geographies of Postsecularity by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Gender, Health and Healing by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book The Routledge History of World Peace since 1750 by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Science Fiction, Science Fact! Ages 8-12 by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book The Past in the Present by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book History of the Concept of Mind by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Topics in French Syntax by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book The South China Sea Maritime Dispute by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Religion and Urbanism by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Changing Styles in Shakespeare by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book International Investment Arbitration by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Diversity in Gifted Education by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Schools Of The 21st Century by Thomas G. Power
Cover of the book Violence in Medieval Europe by Thomas G. Power
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy