Society for Research in Child Development

Abstract

Abstract The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD) was established in 1933 by the National Research Council of the National Academies of Science. The history of the society's origin and evolution parallels that of the academic specialty of child development. To realize its original mission, SRCD has recently developed a strategic plan to guide its future. This plan outlines five primary goals for the society that represent a broad vision for the organization and a commitment to the long‐term planning that is required to meet the challenges inherent in the present‐day situation of children and families. The society will remain a central professional organization for researchers and practitioners in all aspects of infant, child, and adolescent development. It will more extensively incorporate international perspectives in its organization, activities, and membership. Reflecting the fact that an understanding of development requires multiple perspectives and methods of research, it will broadly pursue multidisciplinary perspectives and incorporate cultural and contextual diversity in all its activities. Finally, SRCD strives to be recognized for its dissemination of research‐based knowledge that informs research priorities, public policy, professional and educational practice, and the broader public.