ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly summarises some major themes which emerge from the book. The first theme is the recognition that research takes place within a social context, which places political and ideological constraints upon the research process, as well as attempts which may be made to use research findings to alleviate developmental problems through psychological intervention. An ecological view of research-practice relations – provides a framework for discussing the second major theme to emerge. The third theme, again arising from the recognition of the wider social context in which research and practice are located, is concerned with the role of personal values. The fourth theme is the role of 'normality' as a construct within child development research. The fifth theme is the concern arising from attempts to establish too rigid a view of 'normality' as the goal of intervention which has in turn led to an increased awareness and respect for the abilities of those who are the recipients of intervention.
