This important book challenges the widely held assumption that early experience has a disproportionate effect on later development. Drawing from over forty years of rigorous empirical research and theoretical enquiry, Ann and Alan Clarke argue that the effects of early experiences are just the first steps in an ongoing and complex life path, on which the shaping or re-shaping of development can occur in any period.

The evidence they present for the resilience of children and the interaction of early and subsequent experience clarifies and advances the ancient nature - nurture debate. This debate underpins current developments and approaches in fields as diverse as education, psychology, social care and sociology.

The Clarkes' findings have enormous practical implications for professionals working with disadvantaged children and adults. They show the value of interventions with and outside the family, and the potential for positive environments to create lasting change at any stage of life. Early Experience and the Life Path will illuminate the practice of psychologists, psychiatrists, social care professionals and teachers, and anyone working with children who have experience of adversity.

Ann Clarke was Emeritus Professor at the University of Hull, as was her late husband Alan Clarke who also held the position of Pro-Vice Chancellor at the University. Their work has been widely published, including seven other books, and their careful research and analysis was recognized by the 1977 Research Award from the American Association on Mental Deficiency and the 1982 Distinguished Achievement Award for Scientific Literature from the International Association for the Scientific Study of Mental Deficiency. Ann was a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and Alan was an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and, in 1974, he was appointed a CBE.

1. Prologue. 2. Some research problems and solutions. 3. Development under `natural' circumstances. 4. Children rescued from very severe adversity. 5. Outcomes of less severe adversity. 6. Contrary evidence? 7. Epilogue. Appendix: Some questions and answers. References. Index