Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents development of a rudimentary sense of self which occurs between birth and five years of age, and the links to executive functioning in adulthood which can affect the individual and society. It discusses the five stages of a sense of self in a context of theory illustrated by examples from the child’s earliest years. The book provides a discussion of links between research and practice, by focusing upon policy and theoretical principles. It explores the link between executive functioning and language. It discusses the principles of working memory, response inhibition, self-regulation and task-shifting. The book also provides research and highlights the significance of family learning and early intervention. It also presents links between exposure to dysfunctionality in childhood, self-regulatory failure in adults, and mental/physical health conditions.