This book covers a broad area-the problems associated with female develop ment-from the appearance of gender abnormalities in the delivery room, through the trials of pubescence, early maturation, and precocious child bearing. Experts from many diverse fields of scholarship have contributed chapters covering a wide range of subjects. The contributors have concentrated on their areas of expertise. The broad range of this book is unique; no other textbook covers as many areas. The diversity of subjects covered will help the reader (gynecologist, pediatrician, nurse, health counselor, social worker, or psy chologist) to understand both the physical and psychological problems which beset the female, from birth to adolescence. Because of the wealth of information presented, we hope that this volume will serve as a reference source and as a basis for further in-depth studies. The editors wish to express sincere thanks for the efforts "above and beyond the call of duty" on the part of many members of our staff. A special thank you to Carrie Marcell R.N., our research nurse and University of Louisville coordinator for this project, for her time and effort in putting up with the vagaries of the editors; and to Betty Jones and Linda Grear for their fine secretarial work. Special recognition is due Sue Koenig, whose patience with us in adapting the text to our word processor made our job a great deal easier.