Special Psychology

Usanova Olga Nikolaevna is a Doctor of Psychological Sciences, a professor at the Moscow Institute of Psychoanalysis, an active member of the International Academy of Psychological Sciences, an expert of the League of Nations Health, and the leader and participant... of several national projects in Russia in the field of national health. Special psychology is a science that helps to understand the features of atypical psychological development in children and explains how to identify developmental difficulties, determine the types of work that will help a child overcome challenging life situations and improve quality of life. The book outlines the history of the emergence of special psychology as a branch of psychological science and practice, its methodology, principles, and conceptual sources. It systematizes the main terms and concepts related to this young branch of psychology, examines the primary problems of the science, and presents ways to help children with developmental difficulties, emphasizing the improvement of psychological ecology and enhancing quality of life. Readers will get acquainted with the characteristics of atypical development, technology of psychological diagnostics, methods of psychological counseling for such children, and methods of therapy and correction. All this forms the necessary knowledge base, modern worldview, and professional thinking for specialists. The tutorial will be useful for students of special education and psychology, educators, and caregivers—everyone who is interested in the problems of children with developmental difficulties.