This infor native study introduces students to a series of ex- ploratory investigations into the nature of adolescence. It brings together a wide variety of theoretical and research studies that are provocative and stimulating, suggesting as many relevant questions as they answer. In general, the hypotheses offered and the findings presented are derived from objective, behav ioral anal ses, rather than from clinical or case study methods. The book s interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the appli cability of many branches of the social sciences to a study of adolescent development. Theories and research from psychol- ogy, socio ogy, and anthropology, plus attention to specific developmental, sociocultural, familial, and schooling issues are all brought to bear upon the study of adolescent adjustment.