The Interpersonal World of the Infant: A View from Psychoanalysis and Developmental Psychology

"This is an excellent book that outlines the infant to caregiver bond in human development. Dr. Stern challenges the traditional developmental sequence and the erroneous views that certain fundamental attachment patterns are confined to infancy alone. This is a great book that understands how scaffolding works in establishing patterns of relationship that can last a lifetime. The fundamental basics that make our human bonds to one another pleasurable and fulfilling are rooted in the establishment of secure attachments, trust and the creation of balance in human giving and receiving. He outlines what can go 'right' and what can go 'wrong' in these early bonds. His focus on loving and attuned presence, reading cues of overstimulation, or understimulation, captures the essence and joy that is both given and received when caretaking is done well or as has been described elsewhere, is 'good enough'. A great read and guide also for parents and clinicians, a great step in helping to build empathy and awareness about this critical period in human development. Highly recommended. "
~ Written on 2008-04-05

"Dr. Stern did an excellent job in describing human development that is empirically based. What has resulted is a questioning of Dr. Margaret Mahler's 1st and 2nd stages of development. Though Dr. Mahler's work is superb, her theory is derived from observation, whereas Dr. Stern utilized computer technology to research similar material consequently presenting a major contribution to the literature. Finally, his writing style is easy to read that all readers can benefit from, especially those who have or work with children. I recommend reading this book.
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~ Written on 2006-12-30