Jerome Kagan was a pivotal figure in developmental psychology, delving into the stability of temperament and the nature of emotion. His extensive research with infants and adolescents demonstrated how certain behaviors in infancy can be predictive of later behavioral patterns throughout development. Kagan's work offered profound insights into the human psyche, highlighting the enduring influence of early predispositions on emotional expression and behavior.
Focusing on three major research themes, the book explores the preservation of individual traits, cognitive and emotional maturation, and the impact of temperamental biases on personality. It offers insights from Dr. Jerome Kagan's extensive career, emphasizing the importance of contextual data collection, the limitations of self-reported information, and the need to investigate puzzling observations rather than simply confirming existing hypotheses. This comprehensive work serves as an essential resource for students and academics in Psychology and Cognitive Science, as well as social scientists.
A distinguished psychologist considers five conditions that constrain
inferences about the relation between brain activity and psychological
processes.
A revered psychologist invites us to re-examine our thinking about
controversial contemporary issues, from the genetic basis for behaviors to the
functions of education
How genes, culture, time, and luck make us who we are
Temperament is the single most pervasive aspect of us and our fellow human beings. We notice it; we gossip about it; we make judgments based on it; we unconsciously shape our lives around it.In The Temperamental Thread , developmental psychologist Jerome Kagan draws on decades of research to describe the nature of temperament—the in-born traits that underlie our responses to experience. Along the way he answers such questions as, How does the temperament we are born with affect the rest of our lives? Are we set at birth on an irrevocable path of optimism or pessimism? Must a fussy baby always become an anxious adult?Kagan paints a picture of temperament as a thread that, when woven with those of life experiences, forms the whole cloth of an individual’s personality. He presents solid evidence to show how genes, gender, culture, and chance interact with temperament and influence a mature personality. He explains how temperament sets the stage for the many personality variations that we see all around us.Research into temperament, powered by the new tools of neuroscience and psychological science, is enriching our understanding of others in every context, from our closest relationships to those in workplaces, schools, and even casual encounters. Jerome Kagan shows us how.
The book explores the fundamental objectives, terminology, and underlying assumptions of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. It highlights the distinct contributions each field makes to our comprehension of human nature and its diversity, offering insights into how these disciplines interrelate and enhance our understanding of what it means to be human.
Focusing on developmental neuropsychology, this book explores how experiences shape a maturing brain. It emphasizes the interplay between biological maturation and environmental influences, making it suitable for both undergraduate and graduate courses. The text provides insights into the developmental processes that affect cognition and behavior, highlighting the significance of neuropsychological development throughout the lifespan.
Exploring the concept of temperament, the book delves into its influence on aggressive behavior, conscience, and psychopathology. Jerome Kagan reflects on the historical perspective introduced by Galen of Pergamon, emphasizing the extent to which individuals can manage their fundamental emotions. This examination offers insights into the interplay between innate temperament and emotional regulation, shedding light on psychological resilience and vulnerability.
