These nine lectures were given by Anna Freud at Harvard University in 1952. They offer non-analysts a psychoanalytic view of development and its application to child-care. Theoretical concepts are underpinned by examples and vignettes in which Anna Freud's incomparable wit and clarity as a communicator are displayed to advantage. The informal style of delivery has been retained as far as possible through the skilful editing of Joseph Sandler, whose annotations provide a useful gloss.