Includes bibliographical references (p. [177]-180) and index.

Woman's place in man's life cycle -- Images of relationship -- Concepts of self and morality -- Crisis and transition -- Women's rights and women's judgment -- Visions of maturity.

Carol Gilligan believes that psychology has persistently and systematically misunderstood women--their motives, their moral commitments, the course of their psychological growth, and their special view of what is important in life. Here she sets out to correct psychology's misperceptions and refocus its view of female personality. This little book started a revolution, making women's voices heard, in their own right and with their own integrity, for virtually the first time in social scientific theorizing about women. Its impact was immediate and continues to this day, in the academic world and beyond. It has inspired new research, new educational initiatives, and political debate--and helped many women--and men--to see themselves and each other in a different light.--From publisher description.