The purpose of this book is to report and interpret a group of research studies relating to social-cognitive development in early childhood through adolescence. Adults interpret the covert psychological properties of other people, their abilities, knowledge, motives, attitudes, perceptions, and intentions relevant to concrete situations. An infant is unable to do this; therefore, both disposition and ability must evolve during intervening childhood. This cognitive process is labeled "role taking." This book includes the subjects of role taking and communication in middle childhood and adolescence, role taking in early childhood, the modification of communicative behavior, and retrospect and prospect. (DO)