ISBN0205439675

I have taught (and taken) courses in Child Development and Lifespan Development with numerous textbooks, and this was definitely my favorite. The text is exceptionally thorough and includes a balance of theory and application. Relevant research is discussed throughout, in a way that is interesting and engaging and emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor in studying development. Most of all I appreciate the personal, direct voice of the text, as if I am listening to the author talk. Some other texts actually make reading about lifespan development boring (hard to do but can be done!) This one very effectively illuminates how fascinating it can be. My only criticism might be that I found it very difficult to cover the entire text in a one semester class, precisely because it is so rich in information.

Used for a developmental psychology class, this book wasn't worth the $94.00 I paid for it. I could have easily substituted this book for any introductory psychology textbook. Piaget, Kolberg, Erikson, and Freud are hardly touched on and their theories are under-summarized. There is also a lack of relevant, current studies in the area of developmental psychology. Most studies are summarized and do not give any usable, substaintial evidence which could be used elsewhere (ex: in papers).

I too enjoyed how the book was written. But I also loved the companion website resources. It was very helpful when preparing for my midterm or final. I bought the book used for the class, and will keep it as an additional resource for my personal library.