Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026

Exploring Cognitive Functions in Babies, Children & Adults with Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Published on: July 28, 2009
Between the laboratory and life: child development research in Toronto, 1919-1965
1Unit for History and Philosophy of Science, University of Sydney, Australia. hanspols@zonnet.nl
Abstract:
Between 1919 and 1956, psychologists at the University of Toronto built a research program in developmental psychology on a functionalist, holistic, and ecological basis. They conducted longitudinal studies on mental health in growing children in educational settings instead of in laboratories and formed strong alliances with the local educational system in order to do so. They initially defined mental health as adjustment and considered conditions within schools to be conducive to its attainment. After developing a psychological theory of personality development, they came to view educational conditions as discouraging the development of mental health. The alliance between the educational system and psychology consequently unraveled, and the program declined.
Related Concept Videos
Life Histories
Naturalistic Observations
Longitudinal Research
Introduction to Developmental Psychology
Three Developmental Domains
Physical Development
Physical processes, also known as maturation, encompass the biological changes that occur across an individual's life. These changes begin with genetic inheritance and continue through various stages, including growth in height and weight,...
Piaget's Stage 1 of Cognitive Development
Exploration...

