DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

FIVE THEORIES
● Psychoanalytic theory proposes that our mind is divided into three parts, Id, ego, and
superego.
● Person centered theory, the theory that individuals strive for self-actualization.
● Cognitive development theory, )states that there are 4 stages of cognitive development in
children, first the sensorimotor, second the preoperational stage, third is the concrete
operational stage, and lastly the formal operational stage.
● Sheldon proposed a theory about body types “ somatotypes”, he states that our body types
are connected with our personality characteristics, Endomorphs, Mesomorphs, and
Ectomorphs. However this theory has been criticized for lacking empirical support and
scientific rigor.
● Social learning theory, bandura emphasized the role of observational learning and modeling
in shaping behavior. He introduced the concept of reciprocal determinism, suggesting that
behavior, environment, and personal factors interact and influence each other
EXAMPLE
● Psychoanalytic theory
- Alyssa experiences difficulty forming relationships in adulthood, through this theory,
it's revealed that it may stem from unresolved conflicts during the oral stage of
development, such issues related to trust and mistrust.’
● Person-centered theory
- mica’s experiences feeling unappreciated and anxiety, she decided to go to a
psychologist where she can feel accepted, her therapist creates a non-judgement
environment for a client struggling with her mental health.
● Cognitive development theory
- A kindergarten teacher adapts the curriculum that fits with the needs of kindergarten
students, that are currently in their preoperational stage.
● Somatotypes theory
- Those who have a mesomorphic body type may be more likely to be assertive and to
take on leadership roles. It is important to remember, nevertheless, that this idea is
not widely accepted in modern psychology and has little empirical backing.
● Social learning theory
- By watching and copying the actions of adults in their surroundings, children can
learn how to be respectful. When adults compliment children on their politeness, the
child receives positive reinforcement that shapes their conduct.

OWN UNDERSTANDING

● Psychoanalytic theory
​ - Somehow the conflicts that we experience in our early childhood can affect our future self
in some particular issue.
● Person-centered theory
- An environment with good people that surrounds you, can make you feel appreciated
and that’s when you will have a self-actualization.
DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

● Cognitive development theory

- In order to identify and meet the unique needs and skills of children at this stage of
cognitive development, it places a strong emphasis on a developmentally appropriate
approach.
● Constitutional theory
- In sheldon theory, it lacks of scientific support, and relying on such stereotypes in
any situation can lead to unfair judgements and discrimination,
● Social learning theory
- my opinion about this theory is that somehow I agree, because when someone
praises you for doing something good you will keep on doing that and that’s a
positive reinforcement.
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