"Unlike other books on the market, this text conveys parenting in all of its complexities. It is parent-centered, not child-centered, highlighting such questions as why parents behave the way they do. Although the book is written from a psychological perspective, views from other disciplines - including sociology, criminology, anthropology, and pediatrics - are also discussed where appropriate. The text focuses on typical parent-child relations, emphasizing the process of parenting, and includes historical and cross-cultural perspectives." "This text is appropriate for students enrolled in courses such as Parenting or Parent-Child Relations in departments of psychology, human development, human ecology (home economics), family and consumer studies, sociology, education, pediatrics, social work, and nursing."--Jacket.