This textbook serves as a comprehensive and timely introduction to the field of adolescent development, providing students with a strong foundation in the biological, cognitive and psychosocial transitions of adolescence. The volume focuses on contextual factors such as culture, racial identity, socioeconomic position and sociopolitical and historical events, highlighting their impact on the physiological and psychological processes and treating them as key elements in understanding development. Authors cover the major theoretical positions about adolescence as well as the relevant research and application.

Preface Foreword

1. Sociopolitical Contexts of Development

Unit 1: Developmental Transitions 2. Physiological Activity During Adolescence 3. Cognitive Development for Adolescents in a Global Era: A Social Justice Issue? 4. Adolescent Psychosocial Processes: Identity, Stress and Competence

UNIT 2: Contexts of Development: Socialization Process 5. A Contemporary History of the Church, Hip Hop, and Technology: Their Influence on African American Youth Development 6. Leisure and Technological Influences 7. Adolescents and Schooling: Differences by Race, Ethnicity, and Immigrant Status 8. Foundations of Faith 9. Multicultural Perspectives of Self and Racial/ Ethnic Identity 10. Immigration and Well-being 11. Socializing Relationships 12. Critical Health Issues During Adolescence

UNIT 3: Confronting Normative Challenges: Risk, Resilience, Privilege & Coping 13. Rebirth: From Adolescence to Adulthood 14. Social Contexts and Adolescent School Engagement 15. Spirituality: Religious & Spiritual Development in Adolescents

UNIT 4: Structuring and Facilitating Supportive Systems 16. From Research to Practice:  The Treatment of Adolescent Psychopathology 17. Understanding Adolescence: A Policy Perspective 18. Program Considerations for Youth-focused Professionals

Afterword