ABSTRACT

Infant observation carried out within the family is a compelling approach to the study of early human development, vividly revealing the impact of intergenerational patterns of child-rearing and the complex relationship between nature and nurture. It provides unique insights into the early origins of emotional disturbance and suggests ways in which healthy development can be promoted by both professional and parent, often resulting in changes to clinical practice.
Developments in Infant Observation: The Tavistock Model is a collection of twelve key papers from international contributors. It offers an overview of current practice, explores the new concepts that have arisen from direct observation, and shows how the findings from observation are being applied in the research setting. An essential text for child psychotherapists in training and practice, this is a book that brings alive the academic theories of child development through thought-provoking and stimulating case-studies which will be of interest to any professional working with children.

chapter |12 pages

Introduction

Psychoanalytic infant observation

part |6 pages

The practice of infant observation

chapter |14 pages

Beginnings

The family, the observer and the infant observation group

chapter |25 pages

The meaning of difference

Race, culture and context in infant observation

part |8 pages

Theoretical developments

chapter |9 pages

First light

Knowing the infant as an actuality and as an idea

chapter |17 pages

Speculations on components in the infant's sense of agency

The sense of abundance and the capacity to think in parentheses

chapter |17 pages

Interplay

Sound-aspects in mother–infant observation

part |7 pages

Research developments

chapter |25 pages

Observed families revisited – two years on

A follow-up study

chapter |21 pages

Observing when infants are at potential risk

Reflections from a study of five infants, concentrating on observations of a Bengali infant