“The third edition of this outstanding child and adolescent development text reviews theoretical and research innovations and integrates critical historical and emerging findings from the field. McCormick and colleagues weave together a tapestry of theoretical and applied work. They highlight the mechanisms and determinants of biological, cognitive, social, language, intellectual, motivational, relational, gender role, and mental health development. In the third edition, interdisciplinary and interprofessional developmental research is more prominent, as are evidence-based home, school, and community practices that can enhance all students' learning, socialization, and well-being. The in-depth coverage of critical issues in each chapter is highly relevant to contemporary international and national contexts, making this an essential text for advanced education and psychology courses.”

—Gloria E. Miller, PhD, Morgridge College of Education (Emeritus), University of Denver


“This book is comprehensive, well organized, and illuminating in its coverage, as well as accessible and engaging. McCormick, Roehrig, and Scherer have produced an invaluable third edition that informs educators about contemporary theory, research, and application in the developmental science of children and adolescents.”

—Richard M. Lerner, PhD, Bergstrom Chair in Applied Developmental Science; Director, Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development, Tufts University


“I am thrilled to see the third edition of this text! I have required this book for my Child Growth and Development courses since the first edition, and advise my preservice teacher candidates to keep it as a reference after their classwork is done. The third edition includes updated developmental research as well as additional guidance related to how technology influences child development and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Information is presented in a logical, learner-oriented manner, and the ancillary materials are great. The text helps preservice teachers understand what they can expect from children and teens in PreK–12 classrooms and how to address the needs of both typically and atypically developing students.”

—Elizabeth "Beth" Hammond, PhD, Department of Education, University of South Carolina Beaufort


“This text offers a comprehensive and accessible overview of developmental theories relevant to professionals in educational settings. By integrating biological, social, cognitive, and cultural dimensions, the book provides a holistic understanding of child and adolescent development. The authors place a strong and timely emphasis on cultural diversity and youth mental health—areas of increasing importance in today’s classrooms. The structure of the book supports usability, promotes integration across chapters, and encourages meaningful application to practice. This is an ideal text for undergraduate and graduate teacher preparation programs and for undergraduate psychology courses focused on development. It is a valuable resource for future educators and mental health professionals seeking to apply developmental theory in culturally responsive, developmentally appropriate ways.”

—Lyndsay Jenkins, PhD, Michael and Jean Shahnasarian Endowed Professor, Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Systems, Florida State University