Personal Relationships Across the Lifespan presents a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the role of personal relationships in people's lives.Highlighting areas of special significance and research interest at each major life-stage, Patricia Noller, Judith A. Feeney and Candida Peterson, examine how close relationships develop over time and influence individual adjustment. They explore a wide range of relationships, including some that are often neglected, such as those with siblings, adult children and elderly parents. They also look at alternative family forms, such as single-parent families and step-families, and address important themes such as intimacy, conflict and power.With insightful discussion of the theory and methods typically used by researchers working in this area, Personal Relationships Across the Lifespan is an ideal resource for students and researchers of both relationships and lifespan development. It will also be of interest to practitioners, such as social workers and family therapists, working with clients with relational concerns and anyone wanting to learn more about the nature of relationships.

Introduction. Relationships During Adolescence. Early Adulthood. Relationships in Middle Age. Personal Relationships and the Elderly. Relationships Across the Lifespan: Key Themes and Concepts. References. Index.