The majority of memory research used university students and young adults as subjects. Although such research introduced methodologies and theoretical concepts, it created a bias in understanding the lifespan development of memory. This text signals the departure from young-adult-centred research.

Until recently, the vast majority of memory research used only students and other young adults as subjects. Although such research succesfully introduced new methodologies and theoretical concepts, it created a bias in our understanding of the lifespan development of memory. This book signals a departure from young-adult-centred research. It views the lifespan development of memory as a continuous process of growth and loss, where each phase of development raises unique questions favouring distinct research methods and theoretical approaches. Drawing on a broad range of investigative strategies, the book lays the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of the lifespan development of human memory. Topics include the childhood and adulthood development of working memory, episodic and autobiographical memory, and prospective memory, as well as the breakdown of memory functions in Alzheimer's disease. Of particular interest is the rich diversity of approaches, methods and theories. The book takes an interdisciplinary perspective, drawing on work from psychology, psychiatry, gerontology and biochemistry.