This paper outlines research on selective attention within a life-span
developmental framework. Findings obtained in both the infancy-child
and adulthood-aging literatures are reviewed and discussed in relation
ship to four aspects of selective attention: orienting, filtering, sea
rch, and expecting. Developmental consistencies and inconsistencies ar
e identified and integrative theories are evaluated. Although a single
theory is unlikely to accommodate the diverse patterns of age effects
, emergent themes are identifiable nonetheless and the essential ingre
dients of a life-span theory of attentional development are enumerated
. Directions for future research and theory are suggested.