Designed for the mainstream human development course, this chronologically organized text combines research and applications with real-life examples to help students apply the material to realistic situations. Thorough coverage of cross-cultural topics and issues facing the disabled, in addition to exceptionally good coverage of health issues and applications, has helped to make Human Development stand apart from the competition. The ninth edition, like its predecessors, is both academically rigorous and very student friendly. The authors' clear, accessible writing style guides students through the various topics of human development with the help of a strong pedagogical program.