Laurence Steinberg, recipient of the Award for Distinguished Contributions to Research in Public Policy, is cited for his extraordinary impact on policy in juvenile justice and child labor and on research into the role of parent and peer relationships in the development of children and adolescents. His groundbreaking research is marked by a sophisticated understanding of the theoretical and methodological dimensions of the field of human development and by a unique and critically important appreciation of the way to integrate basic and applied issues in order to improve the life chances of diverse young people and their families. In addition to the citation, a biography and selected bibliography of Steinberg's works are provided. Also included is Steinberg's paper, entitled "Should the science of adolescent brain development inform public policy?", a version of which was delivered by Steinberg at the American Psychological Association's annual convention. (Contains 1 figure.)