This popular text approaches adult development from a balanced empirical/applied perspective with input from psychology, sociology, and biology. Features: * Balanced coverage of youth, middle age and old age ensures a total understanding of the life cycle. * Boxed features provide a running commentary on adaption to change and life quiz to encourage students to make personal application. * Suggested readings direct students to the most timely sources for further reading. New to this edition: * Critical Thinking Sections end each chapter direct students to rethink the theme of the chapter and apply it to real situations. * Cross-cultural sensitivity throughout the text heightens students tolerance of others' beliefs and practices. * Expanded coverage of gender, exercise and nutrition, sex, world views, alternate lifestyles, vocation, personality, discrimination, institutional care and euthanasia. * Case studies add realism with accounts from professionals and students.