A multidimensional approach to understanding the complexities of human behaviour and development across the lifespanEach person is uniquely shaped throughout their life by many significant dimensions. Understanding Human Development introduces students to new ways of understanding these many dimensions and how they interact to influence human adaptation and coping across the lifespan.Now in its third edition, this text is significantly revised to provide students with the core theoretical understandings of human development and behaviour. Each chapter introduces students to the ideas and research that will likely inform key debates, controversies and implications for practice. It aims to foster students thinking and their interest in a broad range of issues that have the potential to profoundly influence human behaviour and development.NEW TO THIS EDITIONHeavily revised content reflects recent developments in social work and human developmentNew three-part structure allows for easy navigation of the textA unique section devoted to trauma and lossRenewed Practice in Context boxes written by social workers help students to place theory in real-world contextUpdated Apply your Understanding in each chapter encourages students to critically reflect on the ideas being introducedNew Weblinks and references at the end of each chapter provide useful sources of research, and practice and policy materials.