Combining the contributions of experts and highly-respected researchers, the eighth edition of "Language Development" offers a definitive exploration of language acquisition and development from infancy through adulthood. Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, it examines what we know about language development addressing communication development in infancy, phonological development, semantic development, morphology and syntax. Broadening the scope of study, it puts language development into larger biological, social and cultural contexts, while investigating individual differences, atypical development, literacy and even language development in adults. New to This Edition . More cross-linguistic coverage of language acquisition (with an emphasis on Spanish acquisition) proves invaluable to students in all fields because of the growing non-English speaking segment of US population. . New coverage of infant development and precursors to language development (Chapter 2) emphasizes why the first year of life sets the stage for typical language development particularly in the perception and comprehension domains. . Expanded coverage of contemporary topics such as communication in non-human primates; individual variation in human language development; and cultural influences that impact language development (Chapters 1 & 8) puts language development into larger biological, social, and cultural context. . Newest research on the nature and most effective treatment of language disorders in children (Chapter 9) summarizes information from thousands of research reports on autism spectrum disorder, hearing impairment and cochlear implants, children with SLI and other populations. . Recent findings on language use in mature/older adults (Chapter 11) explores findings related to language following stroke and language in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease. . Revised projects and activities engage the reader with extended, hands-on, and real-world applications. "