This text emphasizes "applied/real-life" issues related to human development, allowing students to make connections between the material world and the world around them. Throughout the text, multicultural and gender issues are examined. The book covers many new topics; some of these include genetic testing, ethnic factors in identity formation, bilingual education, imaginary playmates, and varying cultural reactions to the menopause. Also discussed are prenatal hazards and their effects on foetal development, and the effects of day-care on development. The implications of the impact of AIDS on both children and adults are covered, as are children's reactions to death and cross-cultural and multi-cultural attitudes to death.