International adoptions have decreased dramatically in the last decade, despite robust evidence of the tremendous benefits that early placement in adoptive families can confer upon children who are not able to remain with birth families. This book integrates evidence from a range of disciplines in the social and biological sciences- including psychology, neuroscience, evolutionary biology, sociology, anthropology, and social work - to provide a ringing endorsement of international adoption as a viable child welfare option. The author interweaves narrative accounts of her own adoption journey, which involved visiting a Kazakhstani orphanage daily for nearly a year, to illustrate the complexities and implications of the research evidence. Topics include the effects of institutionalization on children's developing brains, cognitive abilities, and socio-emotional functioning; the challenges of navigating issues of identity when adopting across national, cultural, and racial lines; how strong emotional bonds form even without genetic relatedness; and how adoptive families can address the special needs of children who experienced early neglect and deprivation, providing a supportive environment in which those children can flourish. Striving to attain a balanced, evidence-based perspective on controversial issues, the book argues that international adoption must be maintained and supported as a vital means of promoting international child welfare.

Now in its fifth edition, this accessible and comprehensive text highlights the most important theoretical, conceptual and methodological issues in cognitive neuroscience. Written by two experienced researchers who excel at teaching, the consistent narrative ensures that concepts are linked across chapters, and the careful selection of topics enables readers to grasp the big picture without getting distracted by details. Clinical applications such as developmental disorders, brain injuries and dementias are highlighted. In addition, the analogies and examples, opening case studies, and 'In Focus' boxes both engage and demonstrate the relevance of the material to real-world concerns. Revised for even greater clarity, the fifth edition features new and updated artwork, 'Key Questions' to review concepts, and 'Thought Questions' which develop the critical thinking skills needed to evaluate future developments in this fast-moving field. An expanded set of online resources is also available.

Now in its fifth edition, this accessible and comprehensive text highlights the most important theoretical, conceptual and methodological issues in cognitive neuroscience. Written by two experienced researchers who excel at teaching, the consistent narrative ensures that concepts are linked across chapters, and the careful selection of topics enables readers to grasp the big picture without getting distracted by details. Clinical applications such as developmental disorders, brain injuries and dementias are highlighted. In addition, the analogies and examples, opening case studies, and 'In Focus' boxes both engage and demonstrate the relevance of the material to real-world concerns. Revised for even greater clarity, the fifth edition features new and updated artwork, 'Key Questions' to review concepts, and 'Thought Questions' which develop the critical thinking skills needed to evaluate future developments in this fast-moving field. An expanded set of online resources is also available.