Children and their Development, Global Edition, 8th edition

Published by Pearson (September 9, 2025) © 2026

  • Robert V. Kail Purdue University
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Title overview

Children and Their Development examines how scientists conduct research in the field and shows how that knowledge can be applied to help children and families. Author Robert Kail explores the theory, research and contemporary applications of child development from conception through adolescence. The text’s accessible writing and modular format help you see how research translates into practice.

The 8th Edition has been thoroughly revised to reflect the latest in the field of development, including coverage of fresh topics. Highlights include updated coverage of the impact of socioeconomic status, ethnicity and stereotype threat on intelligence test scores and thoroughly overhauled coverage of gender and development. In addition, author Robert Kail integrates updated coverage of research throughout, including references to hundreds of studies published in the last 10 years.

Table of contents

  1. The Science of Child Development
  2. Genetic Bases of Child Development
  3. Prenatal Development, Birth and the Newborn
  4. Growth and Health
  5. Perceptual and Motor Development
  6. Theories of Cognitive Development
  7. Cognitive Processes and Academic Skills
  8. Intelligence and Individual Differences in Cognition
  9. Language and Communication
  10. Emotional Development
  11. Understanding Self and Others
  12. Moral Understanding and Behavior
  13. Gender and Development
  14. Family Relationships
  15. Influences Beyond the Family

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