Includes bibliographical references (pages 265-287) and indexes.
pt. 1. Introduction and overview : Theoretical and methodological issues of communication across the life span. Life-span communication : Perspective and methodology -- pt. 2. Foundations of communication : Cognitive processing and language. Cognitive processes -- Language development -- pt. 3. Relational contexts. Family communication : Childhood through adolescence -- Family communication in later life -- Friendship throughout the life span -- pt. 4. The changing nature of the self and relational networks across the life span. Social roles and transitions -- Interpersonal conflict management -- Social support, health, and well-being -- pt. 5. Leisure and media use throughout the life span. Leisure and entertainment across the life span -- Mass media and children -- Mass media and the elderly -- pt. 6. Summary : Implications of life-span communication. Life-span communication : Implications and issues for research