Child Psychopathology, Second Edition

Rating:
Summary: An excellent, but advanced text
Review: I use this text for my graduate class in child behavior disorders. I also used the first edition. In terms of level, it falls at the very top of the spectrum. It is by far the most complete and rigorously empirical text available. Discussion is sophisticated and thorough. In fact, it is almost possible to use this text without primary source supplements.

As a reference tool, it unparalleled. this is probably the only text you will need as a quick reference for quick answers to run of the mill questions about any child disorder.

However, it does have its drawbacks. The biggest drawback is the advanced level of the text. I suggest it is only acceptable for graduate students and professionals. I believe that even advanced undergraduates will become bogged down in their reading. Additionally, the logic and argument construction requires some skill to follow and understand. This skill is often gained as a part of graduate training.

Because the text is designed for graduates and above, this certainly won't decrease my rating. I think this will remain an important and perhaps seminal text for the rigorous understanding of child behavior disorders.