Combining research and practice, this text creates a comprehensive look at a child's development, from conception through adolescence. A topical organization is featured which reinforces core concepts and research that is balanced with applications centred around real-life situations. Also included is a chapter which reviews atypical development; helpful boxes that amplify chapter material; and a summary chapter which reviews child development by age rather than by topic. The seventh edition emphasizes the role of culture in development, thereby offering a wide-ranging, contemporary assessment of child development.