Learning to Be Human: Social and Emotional Development Across the Lifespan

This book presents social-emotional learning (SEL) as a lifelong process that develops from infancy through very late adulthood. SEL competencies—emotional awareness, regulation, empathy, relationships, and ethical decision-making—evolve with changing developmental tasks, roles, and contexts. From early attachment and identity formation to intimacy, generativity, life review, and emotional wisdom, SEL supports well-being, meaning, and connection across the entire lifespan.