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Great leaders: In Memoriam

Remembering the legacies of leaders in developmental psychology
great leaders in memorium
If you want to honor a leader in developmental psychology, please contact our webmaster, Sue Hobbs.
Claire B. Kopp, PhD

Claire B. Kopp, PhD

Claire retained a deep and abiding interest in developmental disabilities throughout her career. She believed that the study of abnormal development was deeply informed by an understanding of typical growth and change. She is probably best known, however, for her research and theory on the early emergence of children’s self-control or regulation; her work was pioneering and helped to stimulate the large body of work on self-regulation that followed. 
Thomas Dishion

Tom Dishion, PhD

The vast majority of Tom Dishion’s work was organized within an ecological framework with considerable attention to the linkages between peer and family systems. His research on intervention strategies was informed by, and still contributes to, an ecological understanding of child and adolescent development. In addition, his contributions to application in both developmental and clinical psychology are unique, cutting-edge, and outstanding in terms of their relevance for basic science and to the application of developmental science to important societal issues.
Ed Zigler

Ed Zigler, PhD  opens in new window

Ed's contributions to the professional development of many is apparent in…myriad other publications; what is less well-known, except to those who have worked closely with him, is what an extraordinary human being he is. On the outside, Ed is an awe-inspiring, even intimidating figure. However, those well acquainted with him know that at a personal level, he is among the kindest, most gentle and compassionate of individuals.
Eleanor Maccoby, PhD

Eleanor Maccoby, PhD

Eleanor Maccoby is among the most revered progenitors of modern-day developmental psychology.
Karen Saywitz, PhD

Karen Saywitz, PhD

Karen Saywitz was an ardent advocate, scientist and practitioner working tirelessly to ameliorate the trauma of child maltreatment and its legal aftermath for children and their families.
Date created: March 2021

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