In the most thorough attempt to cover all aspects of children's make-believe, Dorothy and Jerome Singer examine how imaginative play begins and develops, from the infant's first smiles to the toddler's engagement in social pretend play. They provide intriguing examples and research evidence on the young child's invocation of imaginary friends, the adolescent's daring, rule-governed games, and the adult's private imagery and inner thought. In chapters that will be important to parents and policymakers, the authors discuss television and the imagination, the healing function of play, and the effects of playfulness and creativity throughout the life span.

About the Author
Dorothy G. Singer is Senior Research Scientist in the Psychology Department at Yale University, where she co-directs the Yale Family Television Research and Consultation Center. Jerome L. Singer is Professor Emeritus in the Psychology Department at Yale University, where he co-directs the Yale Family Television Research and Consultation Center.

Reviews
A stimulating and scholarly presentation of...an important area of human existence. -- Nicholas Tucker * Times Educational Supplement *
A thoughtfully organized and well-written book. The use of the wonderful biographical material, together with the anecdotal cultural materials, makes the book interesting and entertaining to read despite the enormous amount of research cited... It is by far the broadest and most comprehensive book on play and imagination that is currently available. -- David Elkind * Readings: A Journal of Reviews and Commentary in Mental Health *



Book Information
ISBN 9780674408753
Author Dorothy G. Singer
Format Paperback
Page Count 352
Imprint Harvard University Press
Publisher Harvard University Press
Weight(grams) 454g