This course focuses on the biological and psychosocial processes throughout adulthood and the older years. Theories of aging are examined, as well as social role changes, social stratification, and the development of institutions of the aged. The course explores both normal aging and psychopathology, and the systematic intrinsic psychological or personality changes associated with development and adaptation in later life. Other topics include clarification of the causes and prevention of health maladies in the later years, and the nature and treatment of the most common psychopathologies. The psychodynamics of institutionalization and family care of the very old are also examined.