The Adolescent continues to be the best and most comprehensive text in its subject area, setting the standard for adolescent psychology books since its first publication more than twenty years ago.

This text emphasizes the eclectic approach to adolescence, presenting not just one theory on the subject, but many, and discussing the contributions, strengths, and weaknesses of each. The authors also take into consideration current and important topics such as ethnic identity formation and gender issues.

With the addition of co-author Kim G. Dolgin, current and important topics, such as ethnic identity formation and gender issues, have been emphasized. The result is a treatment of the adolescent that offers a current scholarship as well as an understanding of what it means to be an adolescent in the 21st century.