This best-selling text studies the aspects of growth and development from young adulthood to old age, and the impact that culture, gender, and individual differences have on these processes. It presents research findings, theories, and models from the fields of developmental psychology, social psychology, health psychology, sociology, and others to discuss topics of prevention, compensation, gains, and losses. Its conversational tone keeps students interested in the subject matter, encouraging them to apply the concepts of the book to their own lives.