In no other stage of life does a person change as rapidly as during childhood and adolescence. Written in a broad, comprehensible, and illustrative manner, this book provides a good access point to the psychological development of children and adolescents. The successful book, now in its fifth edition, serves as a guide: it offers valuable insights into the developmental psychology of childhood and adolescence. Gerd Mietzel emphasizes key topics in each chapter, selecting themes within cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development that deserve special attention in their respective age groups. With numerous examples and topics that extend beyond psychology, this book appeals to all readers, both professionals and interested laypeople, who wish to understand the development of children and adolescents.

Contents:
1. What is developmental psychology? What are its goals?
2. Foundations and beginnings of human development
3. The first two years of life: physical and social-emotional development
4. The first two years of life: cognitive development
5. The ages of two to seven: cognitive development
6. The ages of two to seven: physical and social-emotional development
7. Middle childhood: cognitive development
8. Middle childhood: physical and social-emotional development
9. Adolescence and emerging adulthood: introduction and cognitive development
10. Adolescence and emerging adulthood: physical and social-emotional development.