The purpose of this course is to help students learn to utilize a lifespan perspective in their work as marriage and family therapists. The course focuses on the important developmental issues and milestones for each stage of the lifespan, paying particular attention to the aspects of context, culture, and environmental issues. Students are encouraged to consider how development occurs within a specific social context and learn how social stress, poverty, low educational attainment, abuse and neglect, and inadequate housing impact development. Biological, social, and psychological aspects of aging and long-term care are included in this course. Models of psychological development are presented and the processes of change and adaptation are examined, including clinical issues such as grief and loss. The clinical application of the material is highlighted through case examples, group discussion, and hands-on application during class activities.Prerequisite: Human Development or equivalent