The noted child psychologist talks about death, survival and science. He can sure tell a good story.
Happenstance can be a factor, but there is often a more personal reason.
Scientists don't like to admit that we choose a problem because it has something to do with us, for we might not be considered objective. But one shouldn't feel that research is polluted because it grows out of a need - the need supplies motive and energy for a careful study. The need, of course, is to understand. He also directed a series of studies on the cognitive, social and emotional development of children with known handicaps and those at risk because of premature birth. And we do it through storytelling.