Introduction to the History of Human Development and Family Science

This comprehensive textbook offers an interdisciplinary introduction to the history of human development and family science. It provides insights from home economics, sociology and psychology to explain and analyze how the field was established and how it is developing and showcases the contribution of its unique transdisciplinary nature.

Expert authors cover key topics and highlight historical contributions from women, scholars of color and LGBTQIA scholars; they emphasize and incorporate research that cuts across cultures; and examine current human development and family science trends in research and careers in their chosen fields. Subjects and issues covered include historical and contemporary studies of child development, adolescent development and young adulthood, adulthood and aging, family science, marriage formation and maintenance, parenthood, divorce, the role of grandparents and sibling relationships.

Exploring how human development and family science can be used as a springboard into careers such as marriage and family therapy, social work, case management, teaching and research, this essential textbook is for all students of human development and family science.

Andrea Roach, Ph.D., CFLE, is an Associate Professor at California State University, Fresno, in the Department of Child and Family Science. Her research interests include the history of human development and family science, family relationships, and intimate partner violence.

Ashley Ermer, Ph.D., CFLE, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Science and Human Development at Montclair State University. As a family gerontologist, her primary research focuses on the interplay between older adults’ social relationships (e.g., romantic partnerships and friendships) and well-being.