Pioneers in the systematic study of temperament in children, and its significance for pathological and normal development, Drs. Chess and Thomas have been conducting research in this area since 1956. While this volume addresses empirical and theoretical issues of the authors' work in this area, its emphasis is on presenting the ways in which the clinician can identify temperamental characteristics in diagnostic work'ups and how he or she can use this information for prevention and treatment of psychological disorders. This book is unique in its focus on the clinical use of knowledge about temperament, a subject which no other book addresses exclusively. The book is directed at the clinician in mental health ? the psychiatrist, psychologist, and social worker ? as well as the pediatrician, nurse, and educator. It may be used by experienced practitioners as well as trainees in the mental health fields.